SOS was founded by Ginny Mancini and Gilda Maiken Anderson because they discovered that many singers had nowhere to go for help - no pension, no union, no anything.  SOS is here to fill that void.

SOS has been vital to the health, wellness and survival of more than 3,000 professional singers since our inception in 1984.  Through our programs and services we have rescued numerous singers by providing emergency grants during times of crisis.  We have come to the aid of displaced performers during times of critical disaster and devastation such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina.  SOS also offers annual scholarships to Masters students pursuing their graduate degrees and future careers in the Vocal Arts.

Ongoing support from individual members, corporate sponsors, and funds raised from our gala events have enabled SOS to offer free comprehensive services to singers meeting eligibility guidelines.  Recipients of aid must have earned their primary living as professional singers for five years and more.  They represent all ages, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, and all genres of performance. 

All services provided under the auspices of our Human Services department are carried out with compassion and are kept strictly confidential.   SOS respects the pride of all singers whose talent, energy, courage and determination have a vital impact in the world of entertainment, culture and the arts. 

“Without the singer, our industry would have no voice.”
Bob Fead, Adivsory Chairman, SOS, Pres. Burt Bacharach Music & Sr. VP, Warner Chappel Music