History
This page chronicles the milestones that have shaped the trust’s journey since 1992. From its humble beginnings to its role as a vital support system for nearly 9,500 members, our timeline reflects the vision, resilience, and dedication behind every decision.
Pure Luck
1991
A Vision Takes Shape
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The early 1990s marked a time of growth for B.C.’s film industry, bringing opportunities but also highlighting gaps in worker protections. Members of IATSE 891 envisioned a non-profit solution that would prioritize the needs of their community, creating a benefits system rooted in compassion and fairness. This idea marked the beginning of a bold journey to improve the lives of industry professionals.
image courtesy: reelfilm.com
1992
A Trust Is Born
After months of collaboration and planning, the trust was established with an initial investment of 1 million CAD from IATSE 891. Volunteer trustees took on the responsibility of managing funds, ensuring every dollar directly benefited members. In its first year, the trust supported 1,005 active members and 5 retirees, laying a foundation for a community-centered approach to benefits.
image courtesy: cineplex odeon films
Knight Moves
Intersection
1994
Debt-Free and Thriving
Just two years after its creation, the trust achieved a major milestone: complete financial independence. This reflected careful stewardship and the growing confidence of members, who saw their contributions transforming into meaningful support. As B.C.’s film industry continued to expand, the trust’s stability became a cornerstone for its membership.
image courtesy: paramount pictures
2014
Adapting to Growth
Over the years, the trust grew alongside B.C.’s film industry, which had evolved into a global production hub. Recognizing the increasing complexity of member needs, the trust transitioned to a new benefits structure, leaving behind Pacific Blue Cross. This change ensured that the trust could continue to provide comprehensive and tailored benefits to a rapidly expanding membership.
image courtesy: timescolonist.com
Godzilla
Deadpool
2016
Fresh Leadership
To bring new perspectives and maintain adaptability, the trust moved from lifetime trusteeships to 6-year terms. This governance change ensured regular renewal of ideas and approaches, keeping the trust aligned with the evolving needs of its members and the industry. It reflected the value of thoughtful leadership in navigating change.
image courtesy: reddit.com
2016
Critical Illness Support
The trust introduced Critical Illness (CI) coverage to provide financial support during life’s most difficult moments. This addition reflected an understanding of the challenges members face in their professional and personal lives, offering them security when they needed it most.
image courtesy: imdb.com
Sweet Virginia
The Mountain Between Us
2017
Committees Empower Trustees
Specialized committees were introduced to help trustees focus on critical areas, such as finance and member engagement. These groups enabled more effective collaboration and decision-making, ensuring the trust remained responsive to the growing complexity of its responsibilities. This shift allowed for a more structured approach to serving members’ needs.
image courtesy: marketwatch.com
2017
A New Identity
As the trust matured, it embraced a new name: Benefits of Film. This rebranding reflected its commitment to the unique needs of film professionals and the creative community it served. It also symbolized a step forward, aligning the trust’s identity with its expanding mission and growing impact.
image courtesy: timescolonist.com
The War of the Planet of the Apes
Okja
2017
Supporting Retirees
With more members transitioning into retirement, the trust introduced the “60+ Plan,” expanding its offerings to include targeted benefits for those aged 60 and older. From just 5 retirees in 1992 to 15 by 2017, this growing demographic underscored the importance of long-term planning and care for members throughout their careers and beyond.
image courtesy: dailymail.co.uk
2017
Broadening the Benefits Horizon
To address the diverse and evolving needs of members, the trust launched Health Care Spending Accounts (HCSA) and Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits. These enhancements provided greater flexibility and financial stability, ensuring members could better navigate health challenges while maintaining peace of mind.
image courtesy: vanityfair.com
To All The Boys I have Loved Before
The Mother
2023
A Strategic Vision
The trust unveiled its first strategic plan, designed to ensure its growth and sustainability in the years ahead. This plan provided a clear roadmap for enhancing member services while preserving the trust’s long-standing commitment to improving lives through thoughtful and forward-looking governance.
image courtesy: chicago.suntimes.com
2024
Inclusive Benefits for All
The trust expanded its offerings to include gender affirmation coverage and maternity/paternity leave benefits, furthering its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. These changes ensured that all members, regardless of their life journeys, felt supported and valued by their benefits plan.
image courtesy: hollywoodnorthbuzz
Heretic
Henry Danger: The Movie
2025
A Growing Legacy
After more than three decades, the trust has grown to serve 8,958 active members and 527 retirees. Its remarkable evolution mirrors the success of B.C.’s film industry, standing as a testament to the power of collective effort and a shared commitment to community care. From its humble beginnings, the trust has become an integral part of its members’ lives, offering stability and support in an ever-changing world.
image courtesy: imdb.com