WaCPAC Plays Large Role in Community

 WaCPAC president Jennette Karger states that the non-profit volunteer organization she leads has existed since 1982, and serves Wayne County by organizing theatrical performances and events throughout the year.

 The productions are entirely staffed by volunteers, who participate in the program free of charge, which Karger states is an intentional policy, with the purpose of eliminating economic barriers for participation.

 Karger states that WaCPAC participation has a variety of benefits for those involved, from improving social skills to broadening childrens’ social circles and introducing them to new and unfamiliar faces from around the county.

 The shows organized by WaCPAC, according to Karger, generally follow the format of being entirely adult productions in the fall and winter, allowing both adults and children in the spring and including only children in a summer musical.

 Margaret Leatherman, director of the summer youth production for three years running, states she has been involved with the organization for 15 years and expresses pride about the benefits WaCPAC brings to the community.

 “[WaCPAC is] a great way to help them improve their skills in public speaking, in their confidence, and just in general,” Leatherman said.

 Leatherman went on to say that she feels WaCPAC’s influence on students will manifest beneficially in an educational environment as well.

 Laurie Schang, treasurer of WaCPAC and member since the 1990s, characterizes the program as, “filling a need,” in the community, which has led to significant success and popularity. Schang described the program as serving the purpose of furthering public education.

 WaCPAC’s next production will be “The Wizard of Oz.”