Behind the Scenes Reaches Giving Milestone

Behind the Scenes has reached an important milestone in the history of the young charity -- it has now issued over a quarter of a million dollars in grants to entertainment technology professionals who are seriously ill or injured. These grants have gone to a wide array of industry members including stagehands, designers, programmers, cameramen, gaffers and grips, costumers, scenic artists, production managers, and technical directors, as well as individuals working in a variety of positions for companies who supply products and services to the industry. Grants have also assisted widows and children with expenses after the passing of an industry member.

Without these grants many recipients would have faced eviction or foreclosure, their utilities would be turned off, they would be unable to purchase much needed medications or pay for doctor or physical therapy visits, and they would lose their health insurance coverage.

Here is what that assistance has meant to two individuals and their families: The wife of a cameraman with cancer who underwent radical surgery, chemo, and radiation and was about to lose his health insurance wrote, "We are overwhelmed by your kindness and help to us. I promise we will pay this kindness forward to someone in need like you have done for us. Thank you so very much from our hearts and our children. You have shown our children the true kindness of fellow man."

An audio engineer undergoing multiple surgeries and lengthy treatment due to an autoimmune disease wrote, "I am the sound man -- that guy whose name you may not remember. I couldn't believe that when I needed help Behind the Scenes was there and didn't turn their back on me. I am the crew guy, not the superstar. Without Behind the Scenes I would not have made it -- that's a fact. I can never thank them enough for their help, and I can never thank them enough for the compassion they showed me in my true time of need. For everybody who contributes to Behind the Scenes, thank you. You helped save my life."

The assistance provided by Behind the Scenes brings both help and hope in times of need. The ESTA Foundation says there are two ways to support the program: Spread the word that Behind the Scenes is available to help those in need. Second, all funding for Behind the Scenes comes from individuals and companies in the industry. To make a donation, purchase Behind the Scenes swag including the specially designed holiday cards, support one of the many industry initiatives benefitting Behind the Scenes such as the Long Reach Long Riders, or purchase from one of the industry companies who have designated the profits of certain products to the charity. For more information about Behind the Scenes, visit the URL below.