Successful Fundraiser for Louisiana Flood Victims

The New Orleans Local jumped into action after the recent historic flooding that took place in Louisiana. Longtime SAG-AFTRA member Jackie Harris called Second Harvest Food Bank to find out what was needed. Lorraine LeBlanc came up with a theme, which became the Cash and Cans get-together on Sept. 14. Member Outreach Chair Olga Wilhelmine reserved a space at a neighborhood restaurant, Rendon Inn, where stunt performers regularly gather. Member Todd Voltz, who is the executive director of the LaFilmProNetwork, arranged for the interns at the University of New Orleans Foundation’s Nims Center to film an interview with board member Artemis Preeshl to promote the fundraiser Members Bob Bennett, Frank Boimare and George Sanchez collected donations and pulled the winning door prize tickets, and member Peter Gabb lent his comedic talents to the effort. The event was a big success, raising generous cash donations and collecting 42 bags of groceries. Local President Diana Boylston commented, “Community is key in our local and this was a chance to effect change and to connect; two things we value.”