Latest news with #AndiSklar
Time Business News
11-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
How Passions Can Support Giving
Andi Sklar is a name that stands for compassion, determination, and a tireless drive to improve lives. Right from the heart of Westport, Connecticut, she channels her energy into supporting causes that matter deeply. For years, Andi has dedicated herself to improving the lives of children and families by backing essential community programs, research initiatives, and health-based services. Her journey is more than a story—it's an inspiration. This article explores how Andi Sklar's passionate involvement has created a ripple effect of positive change, showing how personal passion can lead to powerful giving and tangible community impact. When people speak about giving, they often mention money or resources. But Andi Sklar brings something more—her passion. Her involvement is never surface-level. She dives deep into every project she touches, working from the heart. Her efforts are personal, and that personal connection makes all the difference. From local events in Westport to fundraising campaigns that span the state, she's not just present—she's active, enthusiastic, and involved at every level. Whether it's helping a family find the support they need or backing crucial medical research, Andi Sklar brings a warmth that makes others want to join her mission. Before Andi Sklar became a household name in Westport's charitable circles, she found early inspiration in the powerful mission of Jacob's Cure, a New York City-based organization focused on helping children with Canavan disease. Seeing firsthand how love and advocacy could create life-saving outcomes changed her path forever. Jacob's Cure taught her something essential: change doesn't always start big. It begins with one voice, one heart, and one idea. That experience became her foundation for building community support, understanding the importance of health research, and ensuring every child has a chance to thrive. In Westport and surrounding areas, families know they can count on Andi Sklar. Her programs are not just band-aid solutions—they're about long-term care, planning, and results. She works closely with local nonprofits to develop wellness projects, educational opportunities, and support networks for children and their parents. Her work covers everything from hosting community events to partnering with researchers who develop new treatments for childhood illnesses. She believes in building futures, not just solving today's problems. Her focus is to create an environment where kids feel safe, supported, and empowered. Andi Sklar doesn't work alone. A strong part of her philosophy is collaboration. She believes that a united community can solve even the hardest problems. In Westport, she brings together local leaders, medical professionals, teachers, and parents to ensure that help reaches those who need it most. She also encourages young people to get involved. By guiding the next generation to care about their neighbors, she plants seeds of kindness that will grow for years to come. Because of her leadership, local residents don't just admire her—they follow her example Health has always been one of Andi Sklar's top priorities. Whether it's funding local health programs or supporting national research, she believes in preventing illness and promoting wellness at every age. Her partnerships with healthcare organizations provide real benefits for the people of Westport. She also supports research that looks beyond short-term fixes. From children with rare diseases to families struggling with access to care, her efforts aim to create real solutions backed by science. By blending heart with research, Andi Sklar leads a movement that's both emotional and effective. Another part of Andi Sklar's success is her focus on education. She believes that knowledge is power, and when people understand the issues facing their community, they are more likely to take action. That's why she works so hard to raise awareness about childhood health, research funding, and family support systems. She often speaks at local schools and events, sharing her journey and encouraging others to find their passion. These talks spark hope and remind others that anyone, no matter their background, can become a giver and a doer. Because of her hands-on approach, Andi Sklar is more than a role model—she's a mentor. Young people in Westport see how she turns passion into progress, and they want to do the same. By showing that care and consistency can build a better world, she inspires the next wave of changemakers. Whether it's students organizing food drives or teens starting support groups, her influence is everywhere. She plants the idea that doing good isn't just nice—it's necessary. Some people think that one person can't make much of a difference, but Andi Sklar proves that idea wrong every single day. She doesn't wait for perfect conditions or government support—she steps in and starts helping. Her actions show that passion combined with effort leads to real results. The children who smile because of her programs, the families who find support because of her outreach, and the researchers who continue their work because of her funding all prove that one person truly can create change. Who is Andi Sklar and what is she known for? Andi Sklar is a Westport, CT-based community advocate known for supporting children's health, family well-being, and medical research through active community programs. How did Andi Sklar get started in community work? She was inspired by her early involvement with Jacob's Cure, a nonprofit in New York City, and decided to bring the same dedication to her hometown's causes. What areas does Andi Sklar focus her giving on? She focuses on children's health, wellness initiatives, research support, and creating educational awareness in her local community. How can others support Andi Sklar's mission? People can volunteer, donate to the causes she supports, or attend local events that align with her advocacy work. Why is Andi Sklar's story important today? Her story reminds us that real change begins with individual action. It encourages others to find their passion and use it to give back meaningfully. In a world where many talk about helping, Andi Sklar stands out because she actually does it. Her legacy is written in the lives she has touched, the programs she has built, and the hope she spreads every day. Giving isn't just about money—it's about heart, focus, and follow-through. And Andi Sklar shows us how passions can guide our giving in the most beautiful, powerful ways. If you ever doubt that one person can change the world, look at Andi Sklar. Then start looking for your own way to give. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
08-06-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
From Compassion to Action: The Inspiring Journey of Andi Sklar
In a world saturated with talk and short on follow-through, there are few individuals who truly embody the transition from compassion to meaningful action. Andi Sklar is one of those rare people. She doesn't just feel deeply—she acts decisively, making a real difference in people's lives every single day. From comforting grieving families to advocating for medical research and equity in education, Sklar's journey is not just inspiring—it's a blueprint for how one person can create lasting change. Andi Sklar's philanthropic journey didn't start with a million-dollar check or a grand fundraising gala. It began with a story—a child lost to a preventable heart condition called Long QT Syndrome (LQTS). The tragedy shook her to the core and lit a fire in her heart. Rather than simply mourning from a distance, she took action. She began funding awareness efforts, supporting genetic testing programs, and helping other families navigate the trauma of sudden cardiac conditions. From that moment on, compassion became her compass, and action became her mission. While many philanthropists give in broad strokes, Andi Sklar's approach is personal, immediate, and intentional. She: Listens directly to those in need Identifies overlooked or urgent situations Responds with empathy and speed Follows through with continued support This isn't performative charity. This is people-first giving. Whether helping a single mom pay rent or ensuring a child receives life-saving care, Sklar shows up—fully and consistently. One of Sklar's most impactful efforts has been her tireless work to raise awareness about Long QT Syndrome, a rare but deadly heart rhythm disorder. Her contributions include: Funding research and early screening programs Helping families afford critical medical testing Organizing educational outreach campaigns Speaking out about the human cost of medical blind spots Because of her action, many families have received timely diagnoses, and lives have been saved. Her story-driven advocacy has put a human face on a condition that's too often misunderstood or ignored. Sklar's vision goes far beyond short-term relief. She believes in empowerment—helping individuals and families move from crisis to confidence. Her work includes: Funding scholarships and school supplies for underserved students Supporting job training and mentorship programs Investing in inclusive education initiatives for children with special needs Offering financial support without stigma, red tape, or delay This level of personal investment allows families not only to survive hardship—but to build better futures. Perhaps one of the most poignant aspects of Sklar's philanthropy is her presence during grief and loss. She has quietly funded funeral expenses, offered emotional support to grieving parents, and honored the memories of lost loved ones through action and remembrance. Her work has helped ease the burden for those suffering unimaginable loss—ensuring that no one has to walk that dark path alone. Andi Sklar's story reminds us that true philanthropy doesn't need a spotlight. In fact, she often prefers to work behind the scenes, without recognition or fanfare. Her motivation? Love. Justice. Humanity. She's not building a brand—she's building a legacy of compassion. And that authenticity resonates deeply with those around her. Others are inspired to give, to volunteer, to get involved—because her story makes kindness contagious. Andi Sklar doesn't view giving as a one-time act. For her, it's a daily practice. Whether responding to a GoFundMe for a sick child or mentoring a struggling teen, she wakes up each day asking, 'How can I help someone today?' This mindset shift—from passive sympathy to daily action—is something anyone can adopt. It's not about having endless resources—it's about showing up with whatever you can offer: your time, your voice, your compassion. Andi Sklar's journey from compassion to action shows us that anyone—yes, anyone—can make a difference. You don't need to be a billionaire or start a foundation. You just need to care. And then… do something about it. So the next time you hear about someone in need, don't just feel bad—be moved to act. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Comfort. Show up. Because that's what Andi Sklar does. And in doing so, she reminds us that the smallest act of kindness can start a ripple of hope that transforms lives. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Business News
Andi Sklar: The Visionary at the Intersection of Art, Identity, and Experience
In a world increasingly divided between digital immediacy and physical disconnection, few creators manage to connect emotion, place, and memory as powerfully as Andi Sklar. A multidisciplinary artist, designer, and cultural storyteller, Sklar is recognized for crafting immersive environments and intimate fine artworks that capture more than just aesthetics — they capture a feeling. From contributing to global theme park experiences to creating tender watercolors that celebrate queer life, Sklar's career defies traditional boundaries. He is not merely a painter, or a designer, or a creative director. He is all of these things — and, more importantly, a visionary who bridges commercial design with personal truth. Born in Highland Park, Illinois, Sklar grew up in a midwestern town known for its tree-lined streets and proximity Andi Sklar to Chicago's vibrant cultural scene. He was a reserved but observant child, drawn more to museum halls and sketchbooks than to soccer fields. Family trips often revolved around cultural landmarks — the Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Milwaukee Public Museum. But one trip changed everything: a visit to Walt Disney World shortly after its opening. Sklar was mesmerized not by the rides, but by how everything — from the pavement to the lampposts — told a story. That realization planted a lifelong obsession: how to build a world that makes people feel something real. Following high school, Sklar enrolled in the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). There, he explored everything from architectural rendering to theatrical lighting design. What made him stand out wasn't just his technical skill — it was his deep emotional awareness. His portfolio, even then, contained spaces that invited people to feel joy, memory, or introspection. During his time at RISD, Sklar began exploring themes of identity more openly, particularly his experience as a gay man. For his senior thesis, he created a conceptual exhibit titled Invisible Rooms , which combined architecture, lighting, and narrative to explore hidden queer histories. After graduation, Sklar joined Walt Disney Imagineering, entering the dream factory of themed entertainment. At Disney, he contributed to a variety of global projects, most notably Hong Kong Disneyland, where he worked as an Area Art Director. In this role, he didn't just design facades — he crafted emotional architecture. Everything from the curvature of pathways to the color of rooftops was carefully planned to evoke story. His work on Fantasyland was particularly noted for balancing classic Disney themes with Asian aesthetics, a subtle but powerful act of cultural adaptation. Sklar became known for his attention to detail and his ability to lead multidisciplinary teams with empathy and vision. While many would consider a career at Disney the pinnacle of success, Sklar saw it as a stepping stone. His passion for storytelling through space led him to projects with Universal Studios, DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Warner Bros., and Sanrio. His work at Bollywood Parks Dubai was a standout. There, he helped develop attractions based on Indian cinema, such as Sholay: The Hunt for Bandits . Unlike other designers unfamiliar with the cultural source material, Sklar dove deep into Bollywood history and aesthetics to ensure authenticity. This commitment to research and representation set him apart. To Sklar, design is not just visual — it's anthropological. Despite success in commercial design, Sklar began to feel a pull toward more personal work. Themed entertainment was collaborative and large-scale — but it didn't always allow for introspection or vulnerability. He returned to painting, a medium he had loved since childhood. In 2018, he debuted a series titled 'Desert Trails', showcasing life in Southern California and the American Southwest through a queer lens. The watercolors were quiet but emotionally potent: a man lounging by a motel pool, two friends walking under desert stars, a couple having breakfast in a sunlit diner. These weren't grand statements — they were human moments made sacred through attention and care. Unlike much queer art, which leans into either political activism or flamboyant aestheticism, Sklar's work sits in a middle ground. His subjects are ordinary people in extraordinary lighting. His colors evoke 1970s postcards: teal blues, dusty pinks, and pale oranges. Sklar's art creates a queer nostalgia — not just longing for the past, but longing for the spaces where queer people have always existed quietly and beautifully. His piece The Sandpiper Inn features a retro beach motel, its sign glowing against a dusky sky. No people are present, but their existence is felt — towels hanging over railings, a drink left on a table. This subtlety is Sklar's signature. Throughout his career, Sklar has been an advocate for inclusivity in design teams. He emphasizes hiring creatives from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that narrative decisions in entertainment design include input from those represented. He believes that empathy is a design skill — one as important as drafting or rendering. Whether mentoring junior designers or consulting on DEI-focused design initiatives, Sklar uses his platform to make sure future creatives feel empowered, not excluded. As he once put it: 'It's not enough to build a world — you have to ask who gets to live in it.' Sklar's technical skills are vast. In themed design, he works with 3D software, architectural drafting tools, and digital painting. But in his fine art, he returns to traditional media — watercolors, pencils, ink washes. His watercolor process is loose and layered. He starts with a light pencil sketch, blocks in colors with translucent washes, and finishes with sharp details like signage, reflections, and textures. The final work often looks sun-bleached, as if it's been living in memory for years. He embraces imperfection, stating that 'a brushstroke out of place can tell the truth better than one that's perfect.' Though Sklar avoids the spotlight, his work has earned him growing recognition. His paintings have been featured in LGBTQ+ art festivals across California and the Southwest. Collectors often cite the emotional familiarity in his scenes, even if they've never been to the exact places he paints. He's also been highlighted in design circles for his contributions to themed entertainment, including guest lectures at design schools and panels on queer visibility in architecture and public art. Still, Sklar remains grounded. He maintains an online archive of his work not to promote himself, but to make his art more accessible to those who connect with it. Today, Sklar splits his time between consulting for design firms and working in his home studio. He lives in Palm Springs, surrounded by the landscapes that so often appear in his art. In the mornings, he paints. In the afternoons, he might review attraction blueprints or host virtual design critiques with students. On weekends, he visits vintage roadside motels and old diners, snapping photos for future inspiration. His life is balanced, intentional, and infused with the same thoughtful narrative that defines his work. Andi Sklar may not dominate headlines or flood social media with self-promotion, but his impact is profound. He has built worlds we've walked through, seen stories we've felt without words, and captured lives that rarely get portrayed with such dignity. His legacy is one of care, craft, and cultural empathy — values often missing in both commercial design and fine art. In an age of noise, Sklar's work is a whisper — but one that lingers, resonates, and redefines what it means to be both seen and felt. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
