THINK! Poverty in Western Pennsylvania

Poverty is a multifaceted social problem that affects billions of people worldwide. Our focus is on the Pittsburgh region in this third Think! initiative. Working with the Art of Democracy and a diverse group of regional community partners directly involved in combating various elements of poverty, we have determined that our discussion of poverty must ask the following questions:

  • HOW CAN SYSTEMS & SERVICE PROVIDERS CHANGE TO REMOVE THE STIGMA AND REVEAL THE TRUE NATURE OF POVERTY?
  • IF POVERTY IS A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM THAT CAN BE SOLVED, HOW CAN WE CONTRIBUTE TO THE SOLUTION?
  • HOW CAN WE CREATE COALITIONS TO GENERATE POLITICAL AND SOCIAL MOVEMENTS TO ADDRESS POVERTY?

From its beginnings involving community organizational input, the initiative gathered momentum, moving into social media, online forums, and community gatherings, the project culminated in a broadcast town hall meeting.

THINK! Poverty in Western Pennsylvania aired on Dec 07, 2017.


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Series: Specials

Pittsburgh has long been a vibrant mix of technology and tradition, a blending of ethnic customs and civic pride. As our city and its people evolve to meet the challenges of the 21st century, Pittsburgh continues to grow: inspiring new ideas, new businesses and a changing landscape. But can we create a better quality of life for all our communities? How do we make it a city where young people of color can stay and prosper? And how do we make our businesses more equitable and inclusive?

Original airdate: Jun 01, 2017


First-time psychotic episodes are frightening, confusing and distressing for the entire family. Traditionally, teens and young adults experiencing first-episode psychosis (FEP) have been pulled out of school and/or society – only to begin a lifelong journey of spotty treatment, recurring episodes, and unfulfilled hopes of a career, happy marriage and children. But new research shows a significant success rate for people who receive proper, coordinated care after a first episode. This documentary shows who’s leading the FEP treatment movement, while families share personal stories of heartbreak, success and hope. The program also explores fascinating research on young adult brains that could lead to life-changing treatment of psychosis.

Visit the "Living with Mental Illness" website

Original airdate: Mar 30, 2017


Church has always been an important part of African-American life. While Western Pennsylvania is blessed with hundreds of predominantly black churches, this documentary focuses on just five - but each with a very different story: a church with ties to the underground railroad (Bethel A.M.E. in Monongahela), one known for its rich music program (Mount Ararat Baptist in Pittsburgh's Larimer neighborhood), a small church soldiering on despite dwindling membership (Allen Chapel A.M.E.

Original airdate: Feb 23, 2017


The number of seniors is rising dramatically in the United States. But the number of medical professionals and family members who can provide care for these older adults is seriously lagging. WQED is proud to partner with Highmark Blue Cross, Blue Shield in this multi-platform project that includes a television documentary and digital-first content focusing on challenges for both the aging seniors and their caregivers.

Visit the Caregivers Website

Original airdate: Feb 14, 2017


As the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump nears, moderator Chris Moore sits down with a group of local voters who talk openly about who they voted for in the presidential election and why.  Voters explain the campaign messages that appealed to them, and discuss whether they feel post-election healing is a possibility.

Original airdate: Jan 19, 2017


Western Pennsylvania has a rich history of volunteerism. This documentary focuses on three local volunteers who give their time in three different ways: John Edward Hutchinson of the Greensburg VFD is believed to be the nations oldest-living volunteer fire chief; Former Pittsburgh Steeler Charlie Batch combines athletics and academics in a highly-successful program for at-risk youth; Linda Lafferty organizes Blessings in a Backpack in Wilkinsburg, providing food for students who might not have a meal waiting at home. 

Original airdate: Dec 16, 2016


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