News and Events

Community Forum to Discuss Child Welfare Needs

Click here for more on "Gossamer"

PORTLAND, October 9, 2008 – To discuss the future of child welfare needs in Oregon, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette and Oregon Children’s Theatre will bring together experts and advocates at a community forum to be held Oct. 24.

The forum will follow the 7pm performance of “Gossamer” on Friday, Oct. 24 at Winningstad Theatre. Funded by United Way and produced by Oregon Children’s Theatre, “Gossamer” addresses issues of child abuse and involvement in the foster care system.

The Portland-Vancouver region has seen dramatic increases in child abuse trends and the breakdown the children’s foster care system. By sponsoring the play, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette seeks to increase public awareness of foster care, domestic violence and child abuse.

Themes addressed in the production align with United Way's priorities in education and health, through helping children and youth achieve their potential, and ensuring that individuals are safe from domestic and family violence.

The community forum will be held in the Winningstad Theatre immediately after the “Gossamer” performance. Oregon Children’s Theatre and United Way have invited representatives of local organizations and the children they serve to see the performance and stay for the discussion.

Experts from Oregon’s Department of Human Services and local agencies working to address child welfare needs will join in a facilitated discussion of collective and individual responsibilities for child welfare in Oregon.

The forum will focus on actions that individuals can take to contribute to positive change, and explore state and local government responsibilities for ensuring the welfare of children.With voters considering renewal of the Portland Children’s Levy (Measure 26-94) on the November ballot, the forum will also touch on issues of advocacy and community investment.

“Gossamer” is directed by Stan Foote and recommended for children 10 and older. The play runs from October 18 through November 9 at Winningstad Theatre. Performances are scheduled for 7pm on Fridays; and 2pm and 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

For tickets, call 503-228-9571 or visit Oregon Children's Theatre at www.octc.org

About the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette

United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is working to advance the common good in the four-county Portland/Vancouver area by focusing on the basics we all need for success:  education, income, and health. We all win when children succeed in school, families are financially stable and independent, and people have good health. Our goal is to create long-lasting changes that prevent problems from happening in the first place. By working together we can create opportunities for a better life and create a stronger community.  That’s what it means to LIVE UNITED.

About Oregon Children’s Theatre

Oregon Children's Theatre mission is to advance growth, development and creativity through exceptional theatre experiences. We do this by presenting professional live theatre for youth at a price affordable to schools and families. By introducing young people to the wonders of live theatre, OCT enriches lives today while helping children develop a lifetime appreciation for the arts. www.octc.org