Understanding the Children Behind the Story

Partnering with Know Theatre of Cincinnati

Community members are invited to experience powerful storytelling and learn how they can support local children through fostering and volunteering.

NewPath Child & Family Solutions Partners with Know Theatre to Spark Conversations About Childhood Trauma, Healing, and Hope

At NewPath Child & Family Solutions, we believe that understanding a child’s story is often the first step toward changing their future. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Know Theatre of Cincinnati for an upcoming production, “Make Believe,” that explores the lasting impact of childhood experiences and the resilience of the human spirit.

The play follows the four Conlee siblings, who return home decades after a difficult childhood marked by abandonment and unanswered questions. As they confront the memories and challenges that continue to shape their lives, audiences are invited to reflect on how childhood trauma can leave lasting effects long into adulthood.

For many children in foster care, stories like these are not simply dramatic plots. They reflect real experiences of loss, instability, neglect, and uncertainty. While every child’s journey is unique, the need for safe, supportive adults remains constant.

“Stories have the power to build empathy and understanding,” said NewPath Child & Family Solutions. “This production creates an opportunity for our community to better understand how childhood experiences can shape a person’s life and how caring adults can make a meaningful difference.”

Turning Awareness into Action

Following select performances, theatergoers will have the opportunity to connect with NewPath team members and learn more about ways to support local children and families through foster care and volunteer opportunities.

Not everyone is called to become a foster parent, but everyone can help children feel seen, supported, and valued.

Community members can:

• Foster: Give a child the safety, belonging, and support every child deserves.
• Volunteer: Show up for a child who needs someone in their corner.
• Donate: Help create moments of healing, growth, and hope for local children.

Why It Matters

Research consistently shows that supportive relationships with caring adults can help children build resilience and heal from difficult experiences. Whether through fostering, mentoring, volunteering, or advocacy, everyday people can help children find stability, hope, and a brighter path forward.

This partnership between NewPath and Know Theatre highlights an important truth: while childhood trauma can have lasting impacts, so can compassion, connection, and community support.

Join Us

We invite community members to experience this thought-provoking production and consider how they can help create brighter futures for children and families throughout our region.

To learn more about fostering or volunteering with NewPath Child & Family Solutions, visit newpath.org/foster.

Tickets for Make Believe

Know Theatre’s Make Believe runs now through September 26th, 2026. For more information about the production and to purchase tickets, please visit here.

Content advisory: This production is rated PG-13 and contains depictions of child abandonment and discussions of addiction and sexual abuse.