Since 1945, the Conrad Cantzen Shoe Fund has been making sure that entertainment professionals, whether attending auditions or working behind the scenes, look and feel their best.
In 1945, actor Conrad Cantzen bequeathed his estate to The Actors Fund (now the Entertainment Community Fund) with the stipulation that it should be used to help actors purchase shoes so they did not appear “down at the heels” when auditioning. Mr. Cantzen believed that a good pair of shoes made a great first impression on casting directors.
This Memorial Fund reimburses eligible performing arts and entertainment professionals up to $40.00 towards a pair of shoes costing no more than $100.00.
Please register or log in to our Entertainment Community Fund Portal to access our workshops, programs and services. Our portal is designed to cater to your individual needs and interests, offering access to a wide range of resources and support—all with the guidance and understanding of what it takes to build a life and career in the arts.
Am I eligible?
Any member of a performing arts union in good standing who is currently unemployed, and whose last application was submitted a minimum of 24 months ago is welcome to apply for assistance from The Conrad Cantzen Shoe Fund. In addition to your application, we will also ask for an original store receipt and a copy of your current union card.
We have updated our Shoe Fund process. Please log into the Entertainment Community Fund Client Portal to complete the online application. You will receive an email once your application has been received and approved. If you would prefer to physically send in your application, please download it here and mail it to:
Entertainment Community Fund
729 Seventh Avenue, 10th floor
New York, NY 10019
Attn: Shoe Fund
Get in touch:
The Conrad Cantzen Shoe Fund
917.281.5974
shoefund@entertainmentcommunity.org