Local ONPROFITS BAND TOGETHER TO SHOW SUPPORT OF TEENS IN FOSTER CARE.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) December 11, 2009 -- Beyond Expectations, Inc. (BE), with Media Independence Television (MiND), Heart Gallery Philadelphia and IDEA Performing Arts Center (IDEA) will collaborate to raise awareness of older youth in care. “More than 25,000 youth age out of foster care each year, often as young as 18 years old. “Individually, the numbers seem overwhelming,” said Leontyne Anglin, BE founder and director. “Working together, however, we can reach real young people behind the statistics who are sometimes overlooked.” A very special exhibit will showcase local youth in care awaiting a family

or recently adopted.

Heart Gallery Philadelphia is a photographic project that uses compelling images to give a face and voice to older children in foster care with the goals of raising awareness and helping them find their ‘forever families’. “We are pleased to collaborate with Beyond Expectations and these wonderful organizations who share our commitment to helping children at risk,” said Terry Hirst, co-founder and director.

MiND has committed their participation help raise visibility of the issue in the media. “MiND TV is proud to partner on this event in support of Beyond Expectations' wonderful youth programs," said Eric Fiedler, foundation, government and community relations director. "We look forward to growing this collaborative effort in the future!”

A diverse lineup of talent has graciously given time to lend support. Former Philadelphia Eagle and youth advocate, Reggie V. Brown, is the guest host. “The moment I learned of the great work being done on behalf of youth, I was there!” said Brown. Other featured guests include Rob Schwartz, CEO of Who?Mag TV; Sue Kelly, comic, writer, actress, singer; and the Camden Film Project, an ongoing effort between Dim Mak Films and the Camden Center for Youth Development.

A networking reception, and entrepreneurs showcasing their businesses, will be followed by a private screening of short independent films by local filmmakers. The IDEA Performing Arts Center, located on the lovely Camden waterfront, is the ideal setting for this special evening. A community cultural arts center for youth and families, IDEA uses the arts as a mechanism for healing and change. “Collaborations and events such as the film screening speak to our purpose and mission,” said founder Cynthia Primas. “We welcome Beyond Expectations with open arms as they highlight this important and worthy cause.”

Families are encouraged to attend together, especially youth interested in breaking into video & film. Proceeds benefit the 2010 BE Filmmaking Camp to teach collaboration, budgeting, entrepreneurship, and other vital skills needed by teens. “The organization's advocacy work, including the upcoming Filmmaking Camp, is critical to helping this vulnerable population prosper as they transition to adulthood." said Johanna Greeson, PhD, social intervention researcher and nonprofit consultant. Charitable donation is just $15. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Students FREE.

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