Can you imagine the “Live Music Capital of the World” without music?

Neither could we – live music in Austin is part of our heart and soul. Austin is known as the "Live Music Capital of the World" because on any given night you can step into hundreds of venues showcasing a wide mixture of live music performances. For many musicians, however, regular and unexpected healthcare expenses can be a challenge and often a struggle. But fret not! The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, or HAAM, is there to help local performers and talented musicians get the healthcare they need at a cost they can afford.

Recently, HAAM won the Tru-Skin Dermatology Most Uniquely Austin Award. The accolade, a category of the Greater Austin Business Awards program, was voted on by the general public as the company that embraces Austin’s unique culture and exemplifies what it means to live and do business in the city. This year saw the highest number of votes ever cast for the award.

“We are so thankful for the support of the Austin community,” said Reenie Collins, Executive Director of HAAM. “We are all just a group of ordinary people that are doing extraordinary things due to our love for music.”

Since the award ceremony, Health Alliance for Austin Musicians hosted their biggest fundraiser with over 200 performances through their annual Benefit Day. Since 2005, HAAM (with support from events like HAAM Benefit Day) has helped over 4,400 musicians receive access to affordable healthcare including routine dental work, doctor visits, prescriptions, psychiatric counseling, eye exams, and more.This year, HAAM Benefit Day raised more than $520,000.

“Austin is known for its quirky culture and music plays a huge role in that,” said Reenie Collins, Executive Director of HAAM. “Our musical talent is the glue to the vibrant lifestyle that many of us are accustomed to in this city. It is only right to give back and stand up for those local artists when they need help the most.”

For more information on the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, visit their website here.

Pictured (left to right): Ellen Wood, Chair of the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce; Janson Woodlee of HAAM; Matt Long of HAAM; Richard Topfer of HAAM; Reenie Collins, Executive Director of HAAM; Rikki Hardy of HAAM; Healther Ladage of HAAM; Emily Fredericks of HAAM; Alison Silverstein of HAAM; Kim Couch of HAAM; Jane McMurrey of HAAM.