"Raising Renee" is a deeply personal and poignant documentary that examines the power of promises and familial ties. Produced and directed by Oscar nominees Jeanne Jordan and Steven Ascher, "Raising Renee" explores Beverly McIver's journey as an artist and caregiver to her intellectually disabled sister, Renee.

The story begins in 2003, just as McIver is reaching a peak in her career: she has her first solo art show in New York. However, the unexpected death of her mother brings everything to a halt as she is faced with grief and an unexpected responsibility: taking care of Renee. Years earlier, McIver had casually made a promise to her mother that she would take care of Renee. What she didn't expect was for that promise to completely change her life. Filmed over the course of six years, the documentary offers a personal look into McIver's life, raw emotions and all. We see the struggles she must endure, as well as the joyous moments that make them all worthwhile. But most of all, we see how her new relationship (as sole caregiver) with her sister unfolds and how one promise creates an unbreakable bond.

The film will be followed by a Skype discussion with Beverly McIver.
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Location:	Community Folk Art Center
Price:	free
Sponsoring department/organization:	Community Folk Art Center
Contact:	Tanya Ruffin tjohns02@syr.edu 315-442-2230
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