Outreach Productions

Outreach Productions is a program of creative learning through literature dedicated to improving
the lives of minority and disadvantaged youths, with a particular emphasis on those youths living
in historically impoverished areas. Outreach promotes literacy and library utilization through the development of various programs that focus on creative writing, puppetry, poetry, and computer
science. Outreach believes that early literacy changes minds and lives forever, and it is our mission
to effect such change in as many children and families as possible.

Description:
It is anticipated that the Puppet Theater and the puppetry workshops will build skills in early literacy for young students in East & South Austin. Additionally the workshops for older students will provide the necessary tools to manage peer pressure that may result in drug and alcohol use. The workshops will give the students increased skills for conflict resolution, thereby reducing the incidents of violent behavior. As a result of the workshops, students will become knowledgeable about the long term effects of drug use, violence in the community and the importance of attaining educational goals.

History:
Deborah Orr began her career as a children’s librarian in Houston, Texas and Austin, Texas. After working as a librarian for several years, Ms. Orr continued serving the community by working with historically underserved children in economically disadvantaged situations throughout +the 1980’s. She founded Outreach Productions in 1991 as a means to further her outreach into the community. In April, 1994 Outreach Productions was incorporated as a non-profit corporation, 501 (c) 3. One of the primary missions of Outreach has always been to increase literacy in young students by fostering a love of stories presented in puppet theater and storytelling form. Outreach has given puppet shows, storytelling, writing and photography workshops, and computer classes. During the summer months the children have been provided opportunities to participate in camp, including taking part in various field trips. During the school year Outreach offers homework center support to various community sites. Locations are considered only if Outreach Productions visits the school in that particular community during the school year. During the holiday season Outreach offers holiday craft programs.

Contact people:

Deborah Orr, Executive Director, (512) 989-1539, (email) Sharon Hall, Administrative Assistant, (512) 297-9397

Office fax number: (512) 926-1751

Address:

4700 Loyola Lane Austin, TX 78723 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.outread.com

Directions:

Manor Rd to Loyola   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: UT,   Walk distance (in minutes): 38 mins   Nearest Bus Stop: UT For maps or information, please see http://www.capmetro.org/riding/trip_info.asp

Last updated on July 16, 2009