We pride ourselves on protecting our comedians’ right to free speech and expressing themselves creatively (and humorously). We believe that our stage is their sanctuary. Laugh Factory was recognized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) for their contributions in preserving individual rights and liberties over the past four decades, receiving the organization’s Freedom of Speech Award.
For decades, the Laugh Factory has hosted an annual Kids Comedy Camp that teaches and encourages kids from underprivileged families how to tell jokes and make us all laugh. This program provides children much needed joy, confidence, and inspiration as they learn from comedy legends and have the opportunity to take the world-famous stage at the Laugh Factory’s Hollywood location. In 2019, owner Jamie Masada was honored with an award from the LA City College Foundation for his continued service to youth via the Laugh Factory’s comedy camp.
The fight for racial equality extends throughout all corners of our society, and comedy is no exception. Since opening the Laugh Factory in 1979, owner and founder Jamie Masada has provided a stage to amplify the voices of comedians belonging to all races and backgrounds. This never ending commitment to equality was recognized by the NAACP, which awarded Masada with its Freedom Award.
Laugh Factory has a long history of philanthropy and catering to those who are underserved. From fundraising, to annual free holiday dinners, to COVID-19 vaccine incentives for the underprivileged. Laugh Factory is consistently working with those in the community who need it most by providing essential financial assistance and resources. Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada was awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his contributions and selfless generosity.
Laugh Factory’s played an active part in the city of Los Angeles for over 40 years. Its focus extends beyond comedy towards uplifting the many communities that make up this great city. From giving our unsheltered community members a warm meal and free comedy show on Thanksgiving as well as Christmas, Laugh Factory’s service to its city is year round. The many organizations that have recognized Laugh Factory for its work include Hollywood Arts Council, City of Los Angeles, The Midnight Mission, and many more.
A first of its kind for comedy, the Laugh Factory has provided its comedians with free mental health counseling from a licensed psychiatrist for over ten years. In 2011, owner Jamie Masada received an award from Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services for being a Comedy Innovator and Humanitarian.
Laugh Factory has worked with the United Service Organizations (USO) to serve active-duty members and their families by providing live comedy shows and an annual telethon to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Laugh Factory owner Jamie Masada was recognized by the USO.
Laugh Factory offers an open stage for all thoughts and beliefs. Laughter has the power to heal the world by bringing us together, and Laugh Factory extends its helping hand to different religious groups throughout the country.
Animals have the unique ability to heal us. Laugh Factory has a long history of providing resources to help nonprofit organizations find homes for rescue animals, like Encino-based nonprofit Pryor’s Planet. Laugh Factory comedians are a vocal advocate for the proper treatment of man’s best friend.
For more information about Laugh Factory Legacy, please see the stories below.