The adult industry faces constant legal battles, societal stigma and workplace challenges. Fortunately, a number of nonprofit organizations work tirelessly to protect the rights and well-being of adult performers, producers and industry workers. When folks in the industry think about supporting these groups, donating money is naturally the first solution that comes to mind. Yet while financial contributions are crucial for keeping these nonprofits operational, other forms of engagement are just as essential: volunteering time, advocacy and community involvement.
The Role of Adult Industry Nonprofits
While donations help fund these initiatives, meaningful change requires active participation from people who believe in the mission.
A number of organizations play essential and impactful roles in supporting the adult community. Here are some of the best-known groups:
- Free Speech Coalition: FSC is a trade organization that fights for the rights of adult industry workers by advocating against censorship, providing legal support and promoting policies that protect performers and businesses from discrimination and unjust legislation. For more information, visit freespeechcoalition.com.
- Association of Sites Advocating Child Protection: ASACP collaborates with content providers, governments and law enforcement to combat child pornography, enforce child protection laws and promote ethical standards in the adult industry. For more information, visit asacp.org.
- Woodhull Freedom Foundation: WFF focuses on defending sexual freedom as a fundamental human right. Through legislative advocacy, public education and litigation, it works to ensure that sexual expression, including that of adult industry professionals, is legally protected. For more information, visit woodhullfoundation.org.
- Pineapple Support: Dedicated to mental health and wellness, Pineapple Support offers free and low-cost therapy services to adult industry workers who often face unique psychological challenges, stress and stigma that impact their well-being. For more information, visit pineapplesupport.org.
- New Moon Network: This organization serves as a resource hub and support network for individuals in the adult industry, connecting them with educational resources, legal assistance and peer support communities to foster a safer and more informed working environment. For more information, visit newmoonnetwork.org.
- The Cupcake Girls: The Cupcake Girls provides confidential, nonjudgmental support to those involved in the sex industry, as well as trauma-informed outreach, advocacy and referral to resources. For more information, visit thecupcakegirls.org.
- Electronic Frontier Foundation: EFF defends civil liberties in the digital world, including online free speech and privacy, through litigation, policy analysis, grassroots activism and technology development. For more information, visit eff.org.
While donations help fund these initiatives, meaningful change requires active participation from people who believe in the mission. I encourage every person in the adult community to learn more about these organizations by visiting their websites, talking to their leaders and members, and touching base with them at industry tradeshows and on social media.
In addition to the organizations listed above, many other nonprofits are doing incredible work in and around the adult industry. Their omission is not intentional, and their contributions are just as vital for supporting the well-being and rights of industry workers. If you’re looking to support this community, be sure to research and connect with other organizations that align with your values and interests.
Volunteering Matters
Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways to support nonprofits in this space. Many of these organizations are underfunded and understaffed, meaning that every extra set of hands can make a difference. Whether it’s helping with outreach, organizing events, providing administrative support or offering professional skills like legal counsel, marketing or graphic design, volunteers help amplify the mission of organizations serving the industry and the people who make it run.
Direct engagement also helps combat one of the biggest barriers the adult industry faces: societal stigma. By openly supporting and engaging with organizations like FSC, ASACP, WFF, Pineapple Support, New Moon Network and The Cupcake Girls, volunteers can help normalize discussions about sex work, performers’ rights and free speech. This type of engagement helps create a more inclusive and fair society, where adult industry professionals receive the same protections and respect as workers in other fields.
Deeper Involvement
For those able to make a bigger commitment, industry nonprofits offer numerous opportunities to take on leadership roles and actively help shape the direction of the organization. Many organizations have openings for board seats, committees and advisory positions where industry professionals and allies can lend their expertise and insights. Additionally, nonprofits often run support groups and community outreach programs that rely on passionate individuals to help guide discussions, provide mentorship and foster a sense of solidarity. These roles allow supporters to have a direct hand in strengthening the industry and ensuring that the needs of performers and workers are met in meaningful and lasting ways.
I have had the privilege of serving as a board member of Pineapple Support since its inception, and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Working alongside my fellow board members, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible impact this organization has on the well-being of adult industry workers. From expanding mental health resources to advocating for those who often feel unheard, the work we do is deeply fulfilling. The dedication, compassion and expertise of my colleagues continues to inspire me, reinforcing the importance of direct involvement in these vital nonprofits.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
Beyond volunteering, getting actively involved in advocacy efforts is critical. Many adult entertainment nonprofits push for legislative change, fight against unjust censorship, and work to educate the public about issues impacting the industry. Supporters can:
- Contact legislators and policymakers to push for fair regulations.
- Help spread awareness about issues facing adult industry workers.
- Attend industry events and protests to show solidarity.
- Educate others on the realities of, and misconceptions about, the adult industry.
Making Time to Support the Cause
Everyone is busy, and finding time for additional activities can feel challenging. However, committing even a little time to support nonprofits in the adult industry can still make a tangible impact, whether by volunteering for an hour a week, attending events or offering your expertise. In addition, when we make time to support causes that matter, we not only create a positive change for others but also enrich our own sense of purpose and community.
The adult industry is often unfairly targeted and misunderstood, making it vital for supporters to step up beyond financial contributions and become active participants in the fight for rights, dignity, and fair treatment. By getting involved, supporters can help shape a future where adult industry workers are protected, respected, and empowered.
This article does not constitute legal advice and is provided for your information only and should not be relied upon in lieu of consultation with legal advisors in your own jurisdiction. It may not be current as the laws in this area change frequently. Transmission of the information contained in this article is not intended to create, and the receipt does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship between sender and receiver.
Corey D. Silverstein is the managing and founding member of Silverstein Legal. His practice focuses on representing all areas of the adult industry and his clientele includes hosting companies, affiliate programs, content producers, processors, designers, developers, operators and more. He is licensed in numerous jurisdictions including Michigan, Arizona, the District of Columbia, Georgia and New York. Contact him via MyAdultAttorney.com, corey@silversteinlegal.com or (248) 290-0655.
