Popular Workshop Back to Bring

A Framework for Understanding Poverty
to Mitchell County

            When the workshop "A Framework for Understanding Poverty" was offered in Mitchell County this May, it was filled to capacity.  "We were overwhelmed with the response," said Lori Gilcrist, executive director of Communities in Schools of Mitchell County, one of the sponsors of the event.  "A really diverse group wanted this information and thanks to Progress Energy who underwrote the event, we were able to bring it to them free of charge.

            "When the workshop was over, I was literally mobbed by folks who wanted to see it done again so more people in the area could be exposed to the work of Dr. Ruby Payne," Gilcrist said, "They were particularly interested in giving clergy, church staff and members of the faith community the opportunity to attend the workshop."

            On Monday, July 14, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Pinebridge Auditorium they will have that opportunity.  Communities in Schools, AMY Regional Library, and Blue Ridge Christian News will sponsors the workshop, once again underwritten by Progress Energy and presented by Susan Pennock of Communities in Schools of North Carolina.  The workshop is free and all participants will receive a copy of Dr. Payne's Book, A Framework for Understanding Poverty.  Space is limited and reservations are required.  You can make reservations and get more information by contacting Lori Gilcrist, Executive Director of CIS, at 467-0970 or gilcrists@aol.com.

In her groundbreaking book Dr. Ruby Payne teaches the hidden rules of economic class and spreads the message that, despite the obstacles poverty can create in effectively reaching out to help families living in poverty, there are specific strategies for overcoming them.  Through case studies, personal stories and observations that produce some "aha! moments," Payne clearly strikes a chord and provides a hopeful message.