Press Release - New Workshops and Seminars in LA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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

THE ACTORS’ FUND OF AMERICA ANNOUNCES NEW WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS IN LA
(Los Angeles) – The Actors’ Fund will be offering new groups and workshops this fall while it expands programming in the Los Angeles area.  The new programs were announced by Keith McNutt, recently appointed Director of The Actors’ Fund Western Region Office.

“There are new people and a lot of new energy in the Los Angeles office,” said McNutt.  “This is a very exciting time for us.  We are really letting the staff take their ideas and initiatives and run with them.”

The first new group begins on Tuesday, September 12.  “Are You on the Fence with Life in the Industry?” is open to all industry professionals between the ages of 27 and 55 who want to explore the emotional, spiritual and practical issues of a career in the performing arts or entertainment.   The group is free and confidential.

Another new group, People of Color Support Group (POC), will be launched on Wednesday, September 20th.  This unique 12 week support group is for people of color working or attempting to navigate work within the entertainment industry. 

A new 12 week support group for men who are part of the entertainment industry starts in October. Areas of focus include life and career transitions, communication skills, relationships and intimacy, work and life stress, family issues, body and image related issues, financial and emotional stressors.

A number of workshops and seminars will also be offered this fall including a First Time Homebuyers Workshop; Tips for Temps, which offers information on temping as a flexible way to earn money while pursuing an acting career; Sports Instruction, which explores how to make extra money working in the fitness industry; Money and the Performing Artist, a group that explores how cultural, family, and entertainment industry attitudes contribute to how we think about and use money; and Money Matters, a series of evening workshops on topics such as Credit Secrets, Investing 101, Budget Basics, Ten Myths of Social Security and Everything You Wanted to Know About Identity Theft.

Due to popular demand, the Actors’ Work Program will also be expanding their schedule of orientation sessions.  Beginning in mid-September, AWP orientation will be offered every Monday from 1 – 2:30 pm. 

For a complete schedule of workshops, groups and seminars, visit www.actorsfund.org.  All programs are held at The Actors’ Fund, 5757 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 400.  Please call 323.933.9244 for more information and registration details.

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.