Press Release Contact: Rita Addessa

215-772-2000

October 9, 2000 1/1 plgtf@op.net and www.op.net/plgtf

Local Leaders To Challenge United Way Giving to the Boy Scouts of America and Boy Scout Programs

Judaic and Christian religious leaders will join local community advocates at a press conference to protest United Way’s recent closed door decision to continue public funding for the Boy Scouts of America, locally known as the “Cradle of Liberty Council” and the BSA program entitled Learning for Life, which constitutes education modules to teach “values to urban youth” (not camping or nature walks).

Rita Addessa, plgtf director, notes that the United Way is engaged in a public relations campaign to mislead the public and to deflect public attention away from its decision to continue funding the BSA. In contrast to the United Way’s public posture, its year 2000-2001 report shows, for instance, that it allocated $550,000 directly to the BSA to support six BSA scouting programs (Musser Scout; Green Lane; Treasure Island; RD Pipersville; Resica Falls; and Marshall Creek, PA).

The United Way Board and President remain unwilling to open meaningful public dialogue with membership agencies, concerned community organizations, and citizens about this matter. A final list of speakers and organizational affiliations will be provided on Tuesday, October 10. Please join us.

Press Conference: Wednesday, Coming Out Day!
October 11, 2000 at 5:10 pm sharp (speakers) 6:00 pm end

At United Way Headquarters 17th and Parkway, Philadelphia, PA
(across from Friday’s)

Source: Rita Addessa at 215-772-2000 and 2004 fax. www.op.net/plgtf and plgtf@op.net