Rialto Theatre Launched Interactive Mural Fundraiser

The Tucson venue partnered with Idaho Central Credit Union for an augmented reality game benefiting its nonprofit mission.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Philanthropy

Bold vector editorial illustration of abstract paint splashes and geometric star shapes on a brick wall, representing modern arts fundraising. — The Rialto Theatre in Tucson has introduced an interactive augmented reality mural to bolster its fundraising efforts for nonprofit programming and arts support. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe creative corporate partnerships are an effective way to support local nonprofit organizations?

The Rialto Theatre has unveiled an interactive mural that uses augmented reality to raise funds for its operations. Visitors can play a game by scanning a mural designed by artist Jessica Gomez to unlock charitable donations.

Why it matters

The project serves as a creative sponsorship strategy for the Rialto Theatre, which is seeking new community partnerships to sustain its nonprofit work. The collaboration leverages modern technology to incentivize public participation in local arts funding.

Idaho Central Credit Union contributes $10 for every unique daily participant who plays the game, working toward a $10,000 total donation goal. The augmented reality experience is free for the public to access.

The players

Rialto Theatre

This historic venue operates as a nonprofit organization serving the Tucson community.

Idaho Central Credit Union

This financial institution recently expanded its service footprint into the Tucson market.

Jessica Gomez

She is the artist responsible for designing the interactive mural displayed at the theatre.

The details

To activate the game, visitors scan a QR code and point their smartphones at the mural, which features paint layers isolated specifically for animation. Players attempt to collect virtual coins while navigating around hazardous items within the digital overlay.

Idaho Central Credit Union expanded to Tucson in February 2025.
The augmented reality mural was confirmed active as of October 1, 2026.

Market Landscape

This project reflects a broader trend of businesses using interactive technology to integrate their brand presence into local cultural spaces. It positions Idaho Central Credit Union to build community ties in Tucson through a high-visibility partnership with a local landmark.

Residents can participate for free, helping the theatre meet its fundraising goals without direct costs to the player. The mural offers a new way for locals to engage with downtown arts while supporting a prominent nonprofit venue.

The takeaway

Using interactive digital tools to gamify charitable giving provides a modern way for community members to support the arts. This project demonstrates how local businesses can effectively align their regional growth with philanthropic engagement.