Mission
Unison is a non-profit, registered music industry charity that provides counselling and emergency relief services to the Canadian music community. We are here to help professional music makers in times of hardship, illness or economic difficulties.
For many, a career in music is a dream come true; however, the reality is that many members of the Canadian music community do not have access to the services that can make all the difference in a time of need: sick leave, medical benefits, pension plans, and unemployment insurance. Music workers can easily find themselves unprepared to deal with the financial and emotional burdens of an unforeseen emergency or illness. Unison provides a lifeline in these times of crisis and is there to ensure the health of our friends, colleagues and collaborators.
The Unison Fund is an assistance program – created and administered for the music community, by the music community – designed to provide discreet relief to music industry professionals in times of crisis. There are two distinct types of support available through the fund.
The Unison Fund is funded by support from individuals and industry organizations. All services and information is provided in English and French. Unison will never charge dues or fees for membership or for access to any assistance program.
Unison’s office and staff operate from Toronto, Ontario. Toronto is a name derived from Tkaronto, a Mohawk word meaning ‘where there are trees standing in the water’. For thousands of years, many nations including the Petun, Huron Wendat, Haudenosaunee, Chippewa, Anishnabeg, Métis, and the Mississaugas made their homes here. Toronto remains the home of indigenous, Inuit and Métis people.
Settlers have directly benefitted from the colonization and genocide of the indigenous people of this land. It is our responsibility as an organization and as individuals to engage in acts of resistance and awareness against past, present and future injustices against the original occupants of this land.
Financial Assistance
Unison will provide emergency financial support to Canadian music workers recovering from an illness, injury or other circumstances that result in an inability to work, severe economic or personal hardship.
Counselling & Health Solutions
Supported by RBC Foundation. Through voluntary and confidential support services, eligible Canadian music makers are able to access qualified professionals who can provide counselling and other resources to support individuals and their immediate family members dealing with mental health, legal guidance, family and relationships counselling, or work-related concerns.