GET INVOLVED
Be the person who invests in someone.
Tyler had people who answered his questions, gave him real work, and cared about who he was becoming.
Dear Filmmaker exists so the next filmmaker has people like that too.
WHY IT MATTERS
Talent isn't the hard part. Access is.
Emerging filmmakers rarely lack ideas. They lack the support, relationships, and opportunities that are difficult to find on your own.
One conversation, one introduction, or one day on a real set can change what a young filmmaker believes is possible.
Tyler's story cannot be repeated. But the kind of investment that mattered in his life can be extended to someone else.
FIND YOUR PLACE
Four ways to serve.
MENTORS
Share what you know.
Work alongside Scott Brignac and Watershed to guide one filmmaker through development, production, or post.
VOLUNTEERS
Show up for the next film.
Help at the premiere, the showcase, and the events that bring each film to its audience.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Steward what Tyler started.
Bring governance, strategy, and connections that help the Foundation grow while keeping it rooted in the values that shaped his life.
YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
Shape what comes next.
For young creatives who want a voice in the Foundation's work. Keely Boutwell and two of her cast members joined after The Sun Rises.
MORE WAYS TO HELP
INDUSTRY PARTNERS
Lend what you have.
Equipment, locations, or post-production services. Every gift in kind puts more of the budget on screen.
CHURCHES, SCHOOLS & LEADERS
Point someone our way.
Know a young storyteller who is ready? We'll send everything you need to share the January application.
CAN'T GIVE TIME?
Fund the next film.
A gift of any size helps the next filmmaker get to set. Give →
WHERE IT STARTED
Rooted in faith. Built on relationship.
Tyler's relationship with filmmaker Scott Brignac and Watershed gave him a place where creative development and personal investment could coexist.
That same team now leads Dear Filmmaker. When you join them, you continue something Tyler was already doing: helping the person coming behind him.
FROM OUR FIRST FILMMAKER
What your yes makes possible.
"The big thing that I learned is I need help, and it's okay to ask for it. And it's amazing when you have it."
KEELY BOUTWELL, THE SUN RISES
OPEN A DOOR
Say yes to the next filmmaker.
Here's what saying yes looks like: tell us a little about yourself, talk with us about where your gifts fit, take on a clear role with a set time commitment, and join us at the premiere to see what you helped make. We'll reach out within a week.