A Call for Support from the
Society of Voice Arts and Sciences (SOVAS™)

Since our founding in 2013, the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences (SOVAS™ ) has championed the transformative power of voice. Through initiatives such as the celebrated Voice Arts® Awards, the groundbreaking That’s Voiceover!™ Career Expo, and a host of year-round outreach programs, we have opened doors for recognition, education, and career advancement in the world of voice acting.

At the heart of our mission is a steadfast belief that every voice matters. We have long worked to ensure that artists from every background have a platform to be heard and to thrive. Our mentorship programs, industry partnerships, and educational initiatives have empowered countless individuals to overcome barriers and realize their creative potential.

Today, however, our work faces an unprecedented challenge. Changes in corporate and government funding priorities have led to a significant shortfall at a critical time. As support shifts away from initiatives that uplift the performing arts, we are working harder than ever to sustain our programs and ensure a thriving future for our community. Without a conscientious commitment to nurturing artistic expression, many uniquely inspired voices may never emerge. These are the voices that have the power to shape culture, spark dialogue, and bring new perspectives to the world.

In response, we have launched an ambitious $3 million Capital Campaign to sustain and expand our mission. This vital initiative will ensure that education, mentorship, and recognition opportunities remain accessible to aspiring voice actors, storytellers, and performing artists. Every contribution directly supports our essential programs, enables us to compensate the dedicated team behind SOVAS™, and strengthens our commitment to amplifying the power of the human voice and the performing arts for all.

A cornerstone of our campaign is the creation of the James Earl Jones Prize. This annual honor, represented by a magnificent bronze bust in the likeness of James Earl Jones, will celebrate a voice actor whose work embodies artistic excellence and cultural impact. With the blessing of the James Earl Jones Family Estate, this award is both a tribute to a legendary icon and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come. The original sculpture, crafted by Littleton Alston, the first African American artist commissioned for display in the Statutory Hall of the United States Capitol, will serve as the master from which smaller busts are cast each year.

The challenges before us are significant, yet we remain resolute in our belief that collective action can overcome any obstacle. Your support is not merely a donation; it is an investment in a future where excellence is celebrated, diverse voices are amplified, and the art of voice acting continues to evolve. Together, we can preserve the integrity of our industry and secure the legacy of SOVAS™ for generations to come.

If you are inspired to join us on this journey, please donate today.

With deep appreciation and unwavering resolve,

Rudy Gaskins
Chairman and CEO
SOVAS™

AFFILIATIONS:

Visit SOVAS on Candid.

Visit SOVAS on Charity Navigator.

SOVAS Capital Campaign 2025

Your Support, Your Legacy: Empower the Future of Human Voices