Concert in a Conflict Zone Sets the Stage for Big Dreams

Online, August 19, 2013 (Newswire.com) - - Born in a region of religious and political upheaval and raised in poverty, an unlikely band of teenagers from the troubled southern region of the Philippines are challenged to show the world and themselves they can rise up and dream.

When they accept an invitation to learn the native instruments of their culture and put on a concert for 10,000 people on the edge of a jungle, each teenager is tested and must dig deep to find the strength to succeed.

The true story is told through the award-winning "Rise and Dream," a feature-length documentary. It is produced by CFCA, an international nonprofit working with families in 21 developing countries.

"Rise and Dream" will be shown at a special screening co-sponsored by the UMKC Women's Group at the Plaza Library, Truman Forum:

6 p.m. September 18, 2013
KC Public Library, Plaza Branch, Truman Forum Auditorium
4801 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64112
Tickets are FREE at riseanddream.com/tour2013. RSVP is appreciated.

Ryan Sumicad, one of the teenagers featured in "Rise and Dream," will be in attendance to meet the audience and share his story of success after the film.

"Growing up here in the Philippines is very difficult because you really have to work hard to eat three times a day for you to survive," Ryan said. "In my personal story here in the Philippines, I experienced the difficulty of life. ... CFCA is one of my keys in success."

All of the teens featured in "Rise and Dream" participated in the CFCA scholars program, with the ultimate dream of completing their education and helping to lift their families out of poverty.

"Rise and Dream" will leave audiences awed and inspired. "Active and dynamic people will want to join us for the screening of "Rise and Dream," said CFCA President and Co-founder Bob Hentzen. "It is a celebration of life, a very human and adventuresome life."

Learn more about "Rise and Dream" and view the trailer here at www.riseanddream.org

CFCA is committed to helping families create a path out of poverty, and benefits and services are designed with that commitment in mind. CFCA believes in strong families, the wisdom of mothers, the power of friendship, the dignity of all human beings and hope. To learn more about CFCA, visit
www.hopeforafamily.org