Press Release - New Groups and Workshops

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

(New York) - The Actors’ Fund is launching a series of new groups and workshops beginning in September.  The groups are offered free of charge and are open to all members of the entertainment and performing arts community. 

Starting Thursday, September 21, The Fund will offer a new 8-week support group for women with chronic medical conditions.  The group is for women living with auto immune or other chronic medical conditions such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, cancer or HIV/AIDS.  The group will meet every Thursday from 2 – 3:30 pm at The Actors’ Fund, 729 Seventh Avenue, on the 11th floor.  Women who are interested in participating should call for an interview with Carol Mannes, 212.221.7300 x143 or email cmannes@actorsfund.org.

On Friday, October 6, The Fund will launch Testing the Waters, an HIV/AIDS educational support group.  The group is for those with HIV/AIDS who are not currently working and will help participants identify readiness for school, work, volunteering or other activities.  The group will run for six weeks, meeting every Friday from 2:30 – 4:30 pm at The Fund.  For more information, contact Icem Benamu at 212.221.7300 x118 or email ibenamu@actorsfund.org.

On Tuesday, October 10, Strategies for Fighting Depression & Anxiety will begin a confidential 8-week group series focused on teaching basic tools to help people manage their moods.  Unlike traditional talk therapies, this structured group features weekly guided exercises and homework assignments to help participants take control of how they feel.  Those interested in joining the group should contact Marjorie Roop at 212.221.7300 x191 to set up an interview.  The group will meet every Tuesday from 2 – 4 pm at The Fund.

Money and the Performing Artist, a group that explores how cultural, family and entertainment industry attitudes contribute to how artists think about and use money, begins on Monday, October 16.  The group will meet every Monday from 5 – 7 pm for 6 weeks.  Anyone interested in joining the group should contact Amanda Clayman at 212.221.7300 x184 to set up an interview.

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.

ONGOING GROUPS

Men’s HIV Support Group
A weekly support group for men living with HIV. Interview is required.
Mondays, 5:45 - 7:15 PM
Contact: Bob Rosenthal, 212.221.7300 x115

HIV Support Group for the Recently Diagnosed
A support group for all members of the entertainment community that have been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS since 1996. This group meets in 10-week cycles throughout the year and is held in a safe and confidential environment. The group meets to discuss issues and concerns around being recently and/or newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS or living with the virus since the advent of new medications. Registration is required.
Tuesdays, 4:30 - 6:00 PM
Contact: Rick Martinez, 212.221.7301 x147 or jmartinez@actorsfund.org

SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS

Getting and Keeping Health Insurance
Options for obtaining health insurance in the New York City metro area and finding affordable health care when uninsured. Includes a Q&A session. There is no reservation or pre-registration required
Tuesdays, 5:30 - 6:30 PM
 
Housing Seminar
A review of long term options to obtaining affordable rental housing; 80/20 housing; tenants’ rights information. Reservations not necessary.
Monday, September 11, 2006 &  Monday, October 16, 2006, 5:30 - 7:00 PM
Contact: Lucy Seligson, 212.221.7300 x119 or lseligson@actorsfund.org

Managing Cash Flow for Artists
Learn strategies for organizing, planning and balancing multiple sources of income, along with tips for aligning your professional and financial goals.  Orientation/information session Tuesday, September 12.  Group meets Tuesdays, September 19 through October 10
Time: 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Where: 729 Seventh Avenue, 11th Floor
Contact: Amanda Clayman
Phone: 212.221.7300 x184
Contact Email: aclayman@actorsfund.org