The fire which destroyed Paul Russell’s home on January 30th is over. The battle to rebuild is just beginning.
In This Update:
- Fire Investigation Report
- What Was Lost Beyond Home & Possessions
- How Funds Have Been Allocated
- Housing
- What’s Next
THE FIRE INVESTIGATION
The investigation determined there was “no human factor” in the “undetermined ignition” and “heat source” that started the fire in the vacant, inaccessible attic space above my apartment.
WHAT WAS LOST BEYOND HOME & POSSESSIONS
This wasn’t just a fire. It wasn’t just the loss of a home or replaceable possessions. I lost my safe place—the foundation from which I could rebuild. The recovery stage for Act 2 of my life.
In my new home, Act 2’s curtain had risen. Undaunted, I stood tall—downstage, front and center. I had beaten cancer. I had regained and refined my voice. My humor and hope were renewed. Determination reignited. I was engaged with life again.
Then, fire rewrote the script.
“Fire” isn’t a welcome word or event—in life or in theater. I didn’t cause this. I didn’t manifest it. But I am responsible for how I respond. And responsibility doesn’t wait until you’re ready.
I must rise to the role life has cast me in.
HOW FUNDS HAVE BEEN ALLOCATED
I’m deeply grateful for the donations that have raised 17% of my $15K GoFundMe goal. Those funds have already gone toward:
- Temporary accommodations not covered by my landlord.
- First month’s rent ($1,800) for a smaller apartment, which I begin moving into today, March 1st.
Unfortunately, I’ve learned that my income over the past two decades isn’t high enough to qualify for assistance from The Entertainment Fund.
Yes, I’m frightened. That’s the honest truth. I won’t lie. “No bullshit” isn’t just a tagline in my advice writing—it’s a core value of mine. Not sharing what I’m experiencing would be irresponsible, undermining what I must now do:
- To stand tall—undaunted, downstage, front and center—before you and the world.
- To ask, with humility and authenticity, for help and support.
WAYS TO HELP & SUPPORT
- CONTRIBUTE to my GoFundMe Fire Recovery Campaign.
I know life is uncertain for many, but any contribution will directly support my immediate needs: food, clothing, housing, and employment.
Paul Russell Fire Recovery GoFundMe
- EMPLOYMENT Opportunities (In-person / Remote)
Any leads or referrals are deeply appreciated. In addition to my career in entertainment as a casting director, director, and educator I have an extensive employment history in:
Hospitality/ Hotel Management
- Loews Hotels
- Buck Hill Inn – A 500-room Pocono Resort
- Rainbow Mountain – A LGBTQ+ Resort
- Shawnee Resorts
- Loews Cinemas (10-plex)
Exponential Marketing / Creative Content / Staff Management
- Mirrorball
- Publicis Media
- GMR Marketing
(Resume available. Please contact me via PaulRussellCasting[at]gmail[dot]com)
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The more visibility this recovery effort gets, the brighter the path forward.
Thank you for hearing me. Thank you for your time. Thank you for your help and support.
With gratitude,Paul
Answers for Actors 
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