Testimonials
Stephen Sebert
Affiliation: I.A.T.S.E. Local 669
Occupation: Focus Puller
I was at my wit’s end when the Actors’ Fund came to my assistance
I have worked in the film industry for over thirty years and while there were some slow periods, there was always work coming, just around the corner. It never occurred to me that I might need assistance. After a long, … ...
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Stephen Sebert
Affiliation: I.A.T.S.E. Local 669
Occupation: Focus Puller
I was at my wit’s end when the Actors’ Fund came to my assistance
I have worked in the film industry for over thirty years and while there were some slow periods, there was always work coming, just around the corner. It never occurred to me that I might need assistance. After a long, slow period in Calgary, where it seemed like nothing was shooting, I realized I was running through my savings and my mortgage was due. I went to my union to ask for advice and they sent me to the Actors’ Fund. I had never heard of the Fund, and was doubtful that they would help somebody who wasn’t an actor, but I was wrong! They helped me pay my mortgage that month, something I couldn’t have done without them. That little bit of help was all I needed. Shooting started up again, and I got back to work. It was a small amount of help that I needed, but it made a big difference. I hate to think what would have happened if the Actors’ Fund hadn’t been there.
If you work in the industry, please consider giving back to the Actors’ Fund. It can make a world of difference to somebody in need.
Alison Cockburn
Affiliation: I.A.T.S.E. Local 891, ACFC
Occupation: Set Decorator
In a difficult industry, the Actors’ Fund provides a safety net.
When two of the major shows shooting in Vancouver were cancelled at the same time, there was a sudden influx of people looking for work in film crews. That meant fewer opportunities for everybody. I had been working on two … ...
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Alison Cockburn
Affiliation: I.A.T.S.E. Local 891, ACFC
Occupation: Set Decorator
In a difficult industry, the Actors’ Fund provides a safety net.
When two of the major shows shooting in Vancouver were cancelled at the same time, there was a sudden influx of people looking for work in film crews. That meant fewer opportunities for everybody. I had been working on two shows, but when shooting wrapped there just were not enough jobs. I could see that a lot of projects were starting the next month, but my bills were due and I didn’t know how I was going to survive until my next pay cheque. The Actors’ Fund stepped in and helped cover my rent that month, allowing me to survive until there was work again.
In this business, nothing is certain. The show you are working on could be cancelled at any time, or you could be injured and find yourself unable to work for an extended period. If you don’t have enough savings, the effects of this can be tragic. Fortunately we have the Actors’ Fund, an organization that exists to help those who unexpectedly find themselves in a difficult situation How lucky we are to have such a fantastic resource!
Julie Tanas
Affiliation: I.A.T.S.E. Local 891
Occupation: Lamp Operator
The Actors’ Fund was there to help
When my partner and I decided to have a child it was a happy time, planning for a new child was very exciting. Then he lost his job and I was advised that my work as a Lamp Operator was … ...
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Julie Tanas
Affiliation: I.A.T.S.E. Local 891
Occupation: Lamp Operator
The Actors’ Fund was there to help
When my partner and I decided to have a child it was a happy time, planning for a new child was very exciting. Then he lost his job and I was advised that my work as a Lamp Operator was potentially dangerous to my child. I had planned on working until late in my pregnancy, and this sudden change in events left my partner and I floundering financially. Being out of work is stressful enough, but when you have a child on the way it quickly becomes a crisis situation.
We contacted the Actors’ Fund and found an amazing support system. They helped us out with rent and car payments, giving us an opportunity to get back on our feet before the baby arrived.
When you pursue a career that doesn’t offer traditional benefits, an organization like the Actors’ Fund can play a critical role in your life, offering support at a crucial time. Without the Actors’ Fund there would be nowhere for many of us to turn. We should all be grateful that the Fund is there to help.
