Fundraisers, Non-Profits, and Problems with Performing for FREE

It happens to everyone, whether it's a charity you support, a non-profit in your area, or just someone who doesn't want to pay you, you will be asked to perform for FREE. OMG!

Immediate issues with performing for free:

1. Are the tools you use free? No. Are your costumes free? No. Is the gas to drive there free? No. Is anything free? No, No, NO!

2. Could you be doing a paid performance instead? What money are you losing by doing this performance instead of whatever else you could be doing?

3. Does this business/charity/event have a budget? Is someone getting paid? If so--why them instead of you? Don't let ANYONE pimp you out!
 
Good things about performing for free:

1. If you believe in a cause or if you're helping a friend, it can be very satisfying!

2. It can be good marketing--maybe you will meet people there that want to pay you for something in the future. Maybe it is a fundraiser that is getting a lot of coverage--you could be highlighted in the newspaper, a local blog, etc.

3. Often you can make a trade--maybe it's a special event and you can get your friends on the VIP list, a gift certificate or credit of some sort, or another (potentially) worthwhile trade for your skills.


Determine what is a worthy cause. Determine how much your skills are worth. NEVER fold. You owe it to yourself and all other artists who are striving to not only be paid for their skills and hard work, but recognized as individuals worthy of compensation, to never settle for less than you are worth, and never let anyone take advantage of you!

Hot damn!

With love and respect,
Christy the Amazon

PS- Pictured above. An event, the Kirby Derby, I worked for free, and was very happy to do so! Not only is this a free, annual non-profit event, it supports local artists, fun and bizarre happenings, loving your neighbor, and enjoying life. I made costumes for myself and other referees using donated materials. We spent no money other than driving out to the event, and we had a blast being a part of the action! I got to yell at people, dress crazy, and have fun with my friends--what better time to do a free event, eh?!