Press Release - New Initiatives in Los Angeles at The Actors Fund

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE: October 19, 2006
CONTACT: Lynne Hoppe, 212.221.7300 ext. 129, lhoppe@actorsfund.org

NEW INITIATIVES IN LOS ANGELES AT THE ACTORS FUND OF AMERICA
New Western Region Director Announces Programming Goals

(Los Angeles) –Keith McNutt, recently appointed Director of The Actors Fund Western Region, has hit the ground running.  In addition to announcing a new schedule of groups, seminars and workshops at the Los Angeles office of The Actors Fund, McNutt is looking at ways to expand the services offered in the Los Angeles area and create new support systems for under-served entertainment and performing arts professionals. 

“There are new people and a lot of new energy in the Los Angeles office,” Keith said.  “We are looking forward to getting out in the community more and building on the collegial relationships we already have with the unions, guilds and assistance organizations as well as helping more people in the industry.”

One program that McNutt expects to see growth in is Looking Ahead, which serves young performers ages 9 – 18 and their families.  “The program is really unique,” said Keith.  “It helps give the kids and their families a complete support system as they navigate all the decisions and choices of a life in the industry, from protecting their earnings to dealing with peer pressure to how to keep education a priority.  The program has a terrific advisory committee, chaired by Fred Savage and including many industry professionals.”

The Los Angeles AIDS Initiative is another important program area.  “There is the perception that the epidemic is over in the United States,” said Keith, “but it is not.”  And, for those recently diagnosed, there is an additional burden.  “There is a stigma attached to people who sero-convert now,” said Keith, “and they are ashamed.  Many don’t get treated and they don’t want to tell their friends.  It is a huge psychological burden.”  It is a lifetime illness – and one that is very expensive.  “The HIV Initiative works with people to help them juggle all the details – the meds, insurance, housing,” said Keith.  “We want those affected by the disease not just to live, but to thrive.”

Another area that Keith expects to see growth in is the Senior Care program.  “We have a huge demographic of seniors coming,” said Keith, “and there are going to be issues of isolation, transportation, how to reach out and how to bring services to people.”  The Western Region office will be partnering with other agencies to bring group services for seniors off-site and directly to the people who need them most.”

The Actors Work Program in Los Angeles is already in the process of expanding and will continue to grow to meet the need.  Starting this fall, AWP orientation programs were increased to once a week to meet the demand in the community.  “AWP isn’t about leaving the business,” said McNutt, “it is about helping people find sideline work that will allow them to stay in the industry.  If you find a good sideline gig, you can stay in the business forever – and still eat.”

Other issues on the front burner include affordable housing and accessible healthcare. “Health insurance and housing are two things we are continually working on,” said McNutt.  “They are huge issues for everybody in the industry.”

There are also a number of new groups launching this fall, including a People of Color support group, a men’s support group and On The Fence with Life in the Industry, which has had much success in New York.  “The staff takes their ideas and initiatives and runs with them,” said McNutt.  “Programs are always evolving as we see the need.”

Information on all the programs and services of The Actors Fund is available at www.actorsfund.org or by calling The Actors Fund in Los Angeles at 323.933.9244.

About the Fund
The Actors Fund is a nationwide human services organization that helps all professionals - both performers and those behind the scenes - in performing arts and entertainment.  Founded in 1882, The Fund serves those in film, theatre, television, music, opera, and dance with a broad spectrum of programs including comprehensive social services, health services, supportive and affordable housing, emergency financial assistance, employment and training services, and skilled nursing and assisted living care.  Administered from offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, The Actors Fund is a safety net, providing programs and services for those who are in need, crisis, or transition.  Please visit The Actors Fund website at www.actorsfund.org.