In a new video Brian Stokes Mitchell looks back at nearly 20 years as Chair of the Board of the Entertainment Community Fund, the national human services organization for everyone in performing arts and entertainment.
"As I reflect in this moment," Tony winner Mitchell says, "there is a singular word that keeps coming up: gratitude." Watch Mitchell's heartfelt remarks in the video above.
As previously reported, Tony and Oscar nominee Annette Bening succeeds Mitchell as the new Chair of the Board.
Broadway favorite Mitchell will continue to serve the Fund as a Trustee and Chair of the newly formed Leadership Council, a group of entertainment community leaders comprised of former Trustees, Entertainment Community Fund Medal of Honor laureates, and volunteer representatives who help to advance the organization's work.
Under his leadership as Chair, Mitchell has led the Fund through several significant moments for the entertainment community. In 2020 and 2021 during the height of the pandemic, the organization helped more than 60,000 individuals through a wide range of programs and services. Since March 2020, the Fund has distributed more than $30 million in emergency financial assistance to more than 20,000 people.
Mitchell said in an earlier statement, “Where do I begin in reflecting upon my time as Chair at the Fund? It’s been an honor to serve my peers as we navigate a life in the arts doing what we love—even when doing what we love comes with challenges and uncertainty. Thanks to all of the amazing people at the Fund, I know that our community will continue to have a safety net of support whenever they need it. And as my friend—and former high school classmate!—Annette assumes the role of Chair, I know the Board and the Fund are in excellent hands.”
Since 1882, the Fund has sought to ensure stability, encourage resiliency, and be a safety net for those who shape our country’s cultural vibrancy. Visit EntertainmentCommunity.org.
