Just like the crews who make every show possible, Stagehands are Unison’s monthly donors. By giving every month, you help keep Canada’s music workers supported year-round.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A STAGEHAND?

Keep the show going.

At Unison, Stagehands are the community of monthly donors who make sure the people behind the music can count on care when they need it most.

Your gift each month provides:

• Access to 24/7 confidential mental health support
• Extended therapy coverage for music workers
• Monthly stability for workers facing unpredictable circumstances
• Dignity and support for those who built Canada’s music scene

WHY DOES MONTHLY GIVING MATTER?

Reliable support for an unpredictable industry.

Music workers don’t have job security or benefits most of the time. A monthly gift ensures Unison can respond quickly and sustainably, so when someone reaches out for help, we can say yes.

WHAT DO I GET AS A STAGEHAND?

Every show has its crew. Here’s what you’ll get when you join.

• An exclusive enamel Stagehands pin (pick it up at events like Schmoozefest or have it mailed to you)
• Updates from the frontlines: how your monthly gift is helping music workers
• Invitations to Unison events and special opportunities

SUGGESTED GIVING LEVELS

Every dollar makes a difference.

• $10/month → covers a check-in call for one music worker
• $25/month → funds a therapy session
• $50/month → provides crisis support for a worker in need
• $100/month → ensures ongoing care through Unison programs

TESTIMONIALS

Receiving support from Unison’s Emergency Fund came at a critical time in my life. As a musician, financial instability can be incredibly stressful, and I was going through a really tough period. The $2,500 I received didn’t just provide practical help, it gave me space to focus on my music, take care of essential needs, and regain a sense of stability. Unison’s support reminded me that there are organizations that truly care about artists’ well-being, and it gave me the encouragement to keep pursuing my creative work even during challenging times. I am deeply grateful for their generosity and the impact it has had on both my life and my art.

– Urvah Khan (Artist, Musician, Producer, Songwriter and Cultural Curator / Community Organizer)

During a sudden medical emergency, the Unison Fund was my superhero. As I worried about paying rent and life expenses, the Fund eased all anxiety and gave me the chance to focus on recovering and returning to work. Without the Fund’s support, I’m not sure what I would have done!

– Marshall Feit (Promoter, Venue, Talent Buyer)

in my time of need unison really came through with some much needed relief. I am a full time artist with mental health issues that have drastically effected me during a tough period of my life. income from music has been staggered the past two years and it’s been difficult to maintain. at my very lowest unison helped me, the process was smooth and they were extremely understanding. I can’t exaggerate how important institutions like unison are to artists like me. it makes the difference of being able to have breathing room for the month to be able to create and work on yourself instead of worrying about rent or groceries. one day I hope to be able to give back to unison so artists experiencing what I did can receive the help I needed at the time.

– Kahdijah Payne (Artist)