As a gamer with a deep appreciation for the power of community and philanthropy, I can’t help but be moved by the story of Tom Viola’s remarkable 36-year tenure at Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. His dedication to this organization and its mission to provide vital support to those in need within the entertainment industry is truly inspiring.
After spending three decades with Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, its executive director, Tom Viola, has announced his decision to retire from the charitable institution.
At the close of 2024, Viola is set to step down from her role and hand over the position to Danny Whitman, the present head of development at our nonprofit, starting from January 1, 2025. Viola will continue to offer her expertise as a consultant for the organization until the end of 2025.
Under Viola’s tenure, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS has granted over $300 million in total. Of that amount, $142 million went to the Entertainment Community Fund, which offers social support, crisis aid, and other resources to artists and entertainment industry workers. Additionally, $160 million was distributed to 450 local organizations nationwide.
During the pandemic closures in 2020 and 2021, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS dispensed over $18 million from their funds to the Entertainment Community Fund, which was then distributed as immediate financial aid to individuals within the performing arts and entertainment sector in need.
Viola started working at the organization in 1988 and oversaw the merger of
In 1992, Equity Fights AIDS and Broadway Cares joined forces to battle against HIV/AIDS. Fast forward to 1996, and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS expanded its horizons, donating not just for HIV/AIDS causes but also to establish the Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative under the Entertainment Community Fund. Today, this fund, backed by Broadway Cares, offers a range of services such as The Friedman Health Center, the ongoing HIV/AIDS Initiative, Artists Health Insurance Resource Center, Senior Services, Addiction and Recovery Services, The Dancers’ Resource, and even the Broadway flu shot program.
In 2010, Viola received the Tony Honor for Excellence in Theatre for his work at Broadway Cares.
“Being part of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS on Broadway for nearly 40 years has brought significance and motivation to my life. I take pride in the distinctive partnership between Broadway Cares and The Entertainment Community Fund. Together, we offer a vital network of social services to those in the entertainment industry and performing arts. The resources generated by this remarkable theatrical funding machine extend nationwide through our well-known National Grants Program,” Viola expressed.
As a passionate gamer, I’ll carry the cause of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS close to my heart forever. I firmly believe that Danny Whitman will expertly guide this team of dedicated staff and volunteers in preserving the generous legacy of Broadway Cares with unwavering commitment and enthusiasm.
Since 2009, Whitman has been a key member of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS team. Initially joining as the director of development, she took the helm as the lead producer for two major annual fundraisers: Broadway Bets and Broadway Backwards. In addition to these events, Whitman also contributed her expertise to the Broadway Flea Market & Grand Auction and annual appeals.
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2024-07-19 02:25