History

Ever since the SCTV cast of Catherine O’Hara, Andrea Martin, Joe Flaherty, Eugene Levy, Joe Flaherty and Martin Short came together for a benefit performance at the Toronto Second City in 2008 to support a fellow member of the SCTV crew who was undergoing cancer treatment, the seeds of compassion, camaraderie, and support were sown. This was followed by another SCTV benefit at the Second City Chicago’s 50th Anniversary which included Harold Ramis and Dave Thomas. It is with immense pride and joy that we introduce to you the evolution of our efforts – the birth of the Comedic Artists Alliance.

For over a decade, the Second City Alumni Fund has been dedicated to providing a safety net for Second City alums facing unexpected financial challenges, especially in the wake of health-related hardships. With unwavering support from the Second City population, we have been able to extend a helping hand to many members of our beloved comedy community when they needed it most. The Second City Alumni Fund has truly been a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of unity and generosity that defines the comedy family.

In 2021, as the landscape shifted with the sale of Second City, so did our aspirations. I realized the potential to expand our mission beyond our immediate circle to include not just Second City alumni, but also embrace the broader Stand-up and Improvisation community that shares the same passion for making the world laugh. This expansion has led us to adopt a new identity, the Comedic Artists Alliance, reflecting our commitment to supporting comedic artists from all walks of life.

The Comedic Artists Alliance, now operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, stands as a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and compassion. Our mission remains steadfast – to offer financial assistance and a strong network of support to comedic artists facing unexpected challenges, be it health-related, financial, or otherwise. We believe that by coming together, we can uplift one another and ensure that the spirit of laughter continues to shine brightly even in the face of adversity. 

Together, let’s nurture a community where laughter heals, connects, and inspires.