For many, talking about people living in poverty is an uncomfortable topic. The Northern Shenandoah Valley Alliance for Children, Youth and Families is trying to change that.

Next month, they're having their 5th annual Community Commitment for Change Conference. The conference is focusing on bringing people together to learn about poverty and to help families get out of poverty.

"They're going to hear a dynamic nationally known speaker on poverty," said Executive Committee Member of the Alliance Judy McKiernan. "I think we all look at poverty with bias. We do. I do. So that expertise will help us all get on the same page and understand some of the latest research on poverty and understand some of the best strategies to lift people out of poverty."

The conference is taking place on March 5th at the Lee Jackson. Registration begins at 8 a.m. The conference goes from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The registration fee is $20 per person. Register before February 22nd.

Judge Elizabeth Kellas and Judge William Sharp, with the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, will be there. Jodi Pfarr is the keynote speaker.

For more information, you can contact Beth Mason at beth.mason@dss.virginia.gov.

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