Where Music Meets Mountains

This Donation Day, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is proudly partnered with the Kissidugu Foundation, an organization committed to creating sustainable and equitable opportunities for individuals and communities through civic dialogue, education, environmental & cultural preservation and the perpetuation of Guinean music and dance.

Angie Carroll co-founded the Kissidugu Foundation alongside Gabriel Fara Tolno in 2008, and together, they achieved official nonprofit status in 2012. As the Cultural Arts Education Coordinator and Director of Colorado Programs and Events, Angie plays a vital role in bringing the foundation’s mission to life. This year, she led Donation Day at CBMR on Saturday, March 1 by hosting a music and dance demonstration at the base area, followed by a performance and live music show at Butte 66. 

During the event, the Kissidugu Foundation filled the resort with the vibrant rhythms of Guinean music and dance, offering guests a unique opportunity to experience the rich traditions of West African culture. Beyond raising funds, the event also aimed to celebrate and share the beauty of Guinean arts, fostering connection and appreciation within the mountain community.

“We were so honored to be the non-profit chosen for the Epic Promise this year!” Angie said. “We are passionate about preserving and sharing the rich cultural arts of Guinea and supporting the success of the youth and people of Guinea through our school campus located there. We help provide clean water, sustainable food sources, and opportunity to the people in Guinea through this work.”

As a long-time educator, Angie has found that the arts serve as a brilliant and powerful teaching platform:

“Bringing diverse educators and artists into rural schools and communities impacts world views and global connections. Being able to offer exceptional arts programs and cultural exchange opportunities in the U.S. while simultaneously helping support artists, educators and youth in Guinea feels like doing the most amount of good.”

Through Donation Day efforts, over $1,400 was raised for the Kissidugu Foundation – an amount that CBMR will match to create an even greater impact. Proceeds from this event will help the Foundation provide essential resources, promote wellness, and expand educational opportunities through global art forms.

In addition to raising funds, the Foundation also raised the spirits of all guests who interacted with the artists and performers:

“There were many people (and especially kids!) that really enjoyed the performance and were excited to learn about the work of the foundation. Many locals came up to the base area specifically to attend the Donation Day event,” Angie said. “We had people engage in dance and drumming and lots of great conversations. Many guests went out of their way to come and watch the performance, visit the info table and ask questions about our work.”

Kissidugu means “a safe place,” a vision the Foundation strives to create for students of all ages around the world. Through the dedication of its team and the generosity of donors, the Foundation not only provides aid to those in need but also fosters connection and inspiration by bringing the vibrant traditions of Guinean arts to mountain communities. With continued support, this mission will thrive—empowering individuals, bridging cultures, and celebrating the unifying power of music and dance.

To learn more about the Kissidugu Foundation or donate to their work, visit their website.