In 1951, the group officially took the name “Foundation of Motion Picture Pioneers” and broadened its scope to seek out veterans of the motion picture industry who needed financial aid and assistance, and used the annual event to highlight a member of their own who exemplified their philanthropic mission.
The Pioneer of the Year Dinner event, which benefits the Pioneers Assistance Fund (PAF), has become a mainstay in the motion picture industry and attracts members from all aspects of the entertainment community to share in a lively night of entertainment and honoring the work of the Fund and its generous donors.
Helping Industry Veterans
In 2002, the Foundation of Motion Picture Pioneers merged with the Will Rogers Memorial Fund to create the most meaningful charity in the motion picture industry, the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation. The program includes five levels of assistance, offered to industry veterans in need. Assistance can range from a monthly stipend to medical rehabilitation, equipment aid, emergency grants or vocational retraining.
Throughout the years, the PAF has believed in keeping its acts of generosity quiet while respecting the anonymity and dignity of those receiving assistance. Today, the Fund assists approximately 80 clients a month, providing short-term support during a recovery or adjustment period as well as long-term assistance to senior industry veterans.
