HOLLYWOOD, Calif.–Stating that union and guild membership are a vital source of protection, advocacy, and community for many entertainment workers, First Entertainment Credit Union has launched its Union Dues Sweepstakes to “support the creators and crew members who keep entertainment moving forward.”

The winner of the sweepstakes had their union dues forgiven.

“We understand the financial challenges entertainment workers face,” President and CEO Stephen Owen said in a statement. “That’s why we’re committed to practical support, like helping members stay current on dues so they can keep working. The response to our sweepstakes showed how important it is for institutions to stand behind their communities.”

‘Real Tough Couple of Years’

In announcing the sweepstakes, the $2.1-billion First Entertainment quoted Robert B., a propmaker and “proud member” of International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 44, as saying, “I love prop making and working on old buildings, but it’s been a real tough couple of years. [Winning the sweepstakes] has been an incredible relief.”

First Entertainment has approximately 87,000 members.