
Free First Saturday: Ameriprise Financial is Committed to Enriching Community
With a legacy deeply rooted in community involvement and corporate philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial stands as a dedicated supporter of arts and cultural initiatives. Partnering with the Walker Art Center, Ameriprise Financial proudly sponsors Free First Saturday, a cornerstone of artistic engagement and education in the region. Held on the first Saturday of every month, Free First Saturday invites families to delve into contemporary art through free access to exhibitions and a diverse array of artistic and educational programs.
Ameriprise began sponsorship of Free First Saturday in 2009, exemplifying its unwavering dedication to expanding arts and cultural opportunities for families throughout the Twin Cities community. By subsidizing free gallery admission, Ameriprise helps ensure that families have equitable opportunities to participate in enriching arts experiences. The impact of the partnership between Ameriprise and the Walker extends beyond financial support. By actively engaging with artists, nonprofits, and arts organizations, each Free First Saturday cultivates collaborative programs tailored to children and families of diverse backgrounds.
From art-making sessions to live performances and film screenings, Free First Saturday offers a platform for local artists to connect with new audiences and share their creative talents. This June, Free First Saturday draws inspiration from ArtFest, a festival organized in honor of Keith Haring’s 1984 artist-residency at the Walker. Families are invited to celebrate with performance, art-making, and music that call back to the art Haring created in New York City in the 1980s, including a special, free performance by St. Paul–based BRKFST Dance Company.
The Walker Art Center is deeply grateful to Ameriprise Financial for its generous support of Free First Saturday and its belief in the power of the arts to enrich lives and strengthen communities. Through this partnership, Ameriprise not only contributes to the cultural vitality of the Twin Cities, but it also fosters connections, creativity, and shared experiences that resonate throughout the community for years to come.