The Actors Fund provides actors in need with vital social service programs that cover basic needs that traditional careers provide that the entertainment industry lacks. These programs include disability support so an income can be maintained in the event of injury or sickness, mental wellness programs, and no obligation emergency financial support. This last program is the reason I advocate for this charity. In February of 2017, my father passed away from a heart attack without warning. My sister and I were left with the burden of arranging and funding a wake and funeral which is notoriously expensive undertaking. The Actors Fund, which he had connections with in the past, contacted my sister and I and offered to pick up the tab for the majority of the funeral expenses with no strings attached. The representatives of the Actors Fund helped us throughout the entire process and displayed a true passion for what they do.
The Actors Fund helps thousands of creators in need around the nation, and have an extremely reputable track record as a 501(c)(3) organization as well. Charity Navigator has given Actor's Fund a four-star rating with an overall score of 92.23. The organization does not provide specifics on where a donation of $100 would directly go or how it would affect its programs but I can personally advocate that it is used to help those most in need in times of uncertainty. I owe them more than I could ever provide which is why the Actor's Fund is my pitch for this week's charity to receive the class's donation.
The Charity's website:
Charity Navigator's review:
Hi Jack,
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to read of your father's passing. I'm glad to know that the Actors Fund was able to help you and your sister.
I have a friend who loves to act, sing, and dance in live shows. She would love to pursue this as a career, but her parents don't support her. That always makes me sad because it's important for people to feel supported, especially in such an unpredictable career. I never knew that organizations like The Actors Fund existed but I’m glad they do and that they are able to provide support and community.
I'm impressed by how many different types of assistance they give to performers. Something that I am really impressed with is the The Actors Fund nursing home. I love that the nursing home provides that sense of support and community for those that were in the entertainment industry; as only those who were entertainment professionals are provided care in the home. As people get older, they are not as socially active, and this can negatively affect their well-being. The fact that this nursing home provides a commonality for all residents to bond over is a really amazing thing.
Hi Jack,
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to read of your father's passing. May his memory be for a blessing for you and your sister.
I always remember as a little girl when my parents would bring me to a play, after the curtain call, a series of the actors would try to fundraise for the actor's fund. To be honest, until I read your post, I had not looked into the services and benefits the organization provides. After looking through the websites you shared, I was quite enlightened to see the extent of the "social services" that the Actor's Fund provides.
Losing a family member can be overwhelming and exhausting. I cannot imagine what it was like for you and your sister to quickly accept the responsibility to take care of your father's arrangements. I am so glad to hear that the Actor's Fund was able to assist your family.
The charity I was pitching is also a social service organization that provides financial assistance to those fighting terminal illness. I have seen how such small amounts of money have been able to directly assist a family. Therefore, I am sure the money will do the same for those on the receiving end of the Actor's Fund.
Thank you for bringing this organization to my awareness,
Well Done!
Jack,
ReplyDeleteI am sorry about your father’s passing. Thank you for sharing your story with us and why you believe that the Actor’s Fund should get the money.
I know acting is a career path that gets a lot of judgement. Much like the stigma behind choosing to be an English major, people have very strong opinions about aspiring to be an actor. Personally, I believe people should have a chance to fulfill their dreams. I must admit that I was not aware of this type of organization before I saw this post. Now that I’m aware, though, I am happy to see that they exist.
Although you do not know where the money will directly be going, the organization clearly has the credibility and has already done so much for the acting community, including helping your family, so I personally don’t think it makes that big of a difference; the money will be going somewhere helpful in any case.
Just a question, though. Does this organization strictly provide financial assistance, or are there also other benefits associated (networking, for example)?
Other than that, I appreciate you opening my eyes to this organization!
Isabella Nocera