Lori Barekman

Give Time, Spread Joy: Lori Barekman’s 20 Years of Welcoming Community

For more than two decades, Lori Barekman has been a familiar and welcoming presence at Luther Burbank Center for the Arts. Since she began volunteering in 2005, Lori has exemplified the spirit of service that defines the Center’s volunteer community.

Lori recently retired after a remarkable 40-year career as a physical therapist. Even while working mostly part time and raising her children, she remained committed to volunteering. Her philosophy is simple: “You find time for the things you enjoy and care about.”

As Front of House and Volunteer Manager Betsy Boes puts it, “She is so great. She will work in any position where I need her. She gets along with all her co-volunteers, and she always gives excellent customer service.”

Growing up in British Columbia, Canada, Lori found the arts all around her. Her mother sold tickets for the local symphony, and family outings often included theater trips to Ashland, Oregon. That early exposure sparked a lasting appreciation for live performance, one she continues to share through her volunteer work today.

For Lori, who most often serves as an usher, the Center represents more than a venue. It’s a place where people go to be happy. “For me, it starts off being a place that brings community together. Once they are there, the arts and entertainment create positivity. You go to have a good time or to learn something, but always in a positive atmosphere. As a volunteer, I like making the world a happier place for our patrons.”

“LBC also hosts so many different performances and events. There is something going on all the time for all members of the community. It’s inclusive, and I deeply value that.”

Lori’s connection to LBC is also deeply personal. She brought her children to Family Fun Series shows, watched them participate in school performances on its stages, and cheered on friends’ children in local productions. Today, she still shares that joy, sometimes even gifting her usher vouchers so others can experience a performance.

One cherished memory includes recently taking her son and daughter to see David Sedaris: “I looked over at them, and they were rolling with laughter.”

Lori has found meaning and connection at LBC. “I enjoy the people I work alongside and the patrons I meet,” she says. “I like seeing people from the community that you know.” Her dedication, warmth, and flexibility continue to make a lasting impact—both on the patrons she greets and the community she helps bring together.