12.20.2017

The ‘Force’ Is Strong With Cinematique Organizer

By Jesse Colman, Treehouse Marketing Intern

When Loria Yeaden first learned about foster care as a young girl, she had a difficult time processing the idea that not all kids had what she knew as family.

“I was driven to make an impact for these kids in some way,” Loria said.

Cinematique, which she helped found, has given her that opportunity. The event was created and funded by the Jack and Jill Foundation and members of its Seattle Chapter when Loria was serving as foundation chair.

Cinematique is a free movie experience combined with an educational resource fair for Treehouse youth and families. By using the magic of movies, the event brings young people and the community together while connecting them to critical resources.

Since its creation five years ago, Cinematique has expanded and is now sponsored by Bellevue Lifespring, the YMCA of Greater Seattle and Essex Community Outreach Corporation—a nonprofit Loria runs with her husband, Joseph. Thanks to their efforts, Treehouse families are connected to 14 resource providers that are all dedicated to improving health and educational outcomes for youth in foster care.

“Cinematique also welcomes prospective foster parents,” Loria said. “It’s important for them to be around kids in foster care, their families and see the resources that are available to them.”

Youth who attended this year received a goodie bag, visit from Santa and a special viewing of “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”

Loria has been the driving “force” behind Cinematique since its inception. Thanks to her efforts and the efforts of our partner organizations, the event has become an annual tradition for many foster families in our community.