Nina Prommer
Dear Friends,
So much is happening here at The Actors Fund, and it’s thanks to your ongoing generosity that we’re making great strides in expanding and strengthening our programs and services for everyone in our performing arts and entertainment community.
The Actors Fund exists to help people. It’s that simple. And while no one is more resilient than the people in our industry, there’s no denying it’s a tough business. The ups and downs in employment, the emotional and physical toll of late nights, the challenges of life on the road—this can lead to financial, housing and health problems that are too daunting to face alone.
That’s why we’re here. And in 2017, we developed a three-year strategic plan to help align expansion goals with the changing needs of the performing arts and entertainment communities. While the majority of our programs are concentrated in New York City and Los Angeles, there’s a growing need for our services throughout the nation. To better support those who cannot easily access our offices, we took a selection of our programming to eight U.S. cities across the country last year .
We also led training sessions for over 25 unions, universities and performing arts organizations on how to address sexual harassment issues. We’ll be holding additional sessions in New York City and traveling to more than ten cities nationally to provide additional support and training on this important issue.
Our newer services like The Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts in New York City—already celebrating its one year anniversary!—in tandem with our Artists Health Insurance Resource Center, which offers free and unbiased health insurance counseling nationwide, as well as enrollment in New York and Los Angeles, are just two examples of carefully designed services that help our community proactively manage their lives and mitigate crisis.
From the kids in our Looking Ahead program in Los Angeles and soon to be launched New York City chapter; to residents discovering our new short-stay rehabilitation facilities at The Actors Fund Home in New Jersey; to those enjoying The Waldman Living Room, a beautiful new senior center within The Dorothy Ross Friedman Residence in Midtown Manhattan; to everyone in between, we’re truly here for our community over their lifespan.
This work would not be possible without our committed Board as well as our dedicated staff and volunteers. As always, we salute Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. Their continued partnership is essential in helping our community to thrive.
Thank you for your commitment and our work. Together, we’re working toward a world that places greater value in our remarkable creative community.
Yours in good health,
Joseph P. Benincasa
President & CEO
To read more, download a copy of our Marquee newsletter, or donate today and become a member. You’ll receive your own copy of Marquee twice a year, and play an important role in helping The Actors Fund provide essential programs and services for everyone in performing arts and entertainment.