OLYMPIA -- Twenty-five photographs from the Washington State Heart Gallery 2007, exhibit of compelling photographic portraits of diversity and caring individuals, has moved to the Puyallup Fair.

The exhibit will be open during fair hours, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., at the Puyallup Fair and Events Center, 110 9th Avenue SW, Puyallup, Education Pavilion first floor, from September 7 – 11.

The Washington State Heart Gallery 2007, which has been shown at various venues around the state, is a collection of 62 portraits of children, teens, adults, families, and seniors supported by Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) programs, 25 of these exceptional photographs are on exhibit at the Fair.

The goal of The Heart Gallery is to inspire the public to step forward as:

• Adoptive and foster families.
• Mentors for at-risk teens.
• Caregivers and companions to elderly people and people with disabilities.
• Potential employers of people with developmental disabilities, or respite care providers for families of people with developmental disabilities.

Nine of the Northwest's top photographers volunteered their expertise to create the stunning visual images. Since its premiere on April 27, 2006, in Seattle, Heart Gallery visitors have found the images to be emotional, inspiring, and touching. Among written comments received:

• "I'm seriously considering becoming a mentor."
• "We are considering adopting. The pictures of the children really inspired us."
• "Artistically excellent and reached deeply into my heart."
• "Thanks for putting a face and reality on the numbers and variety of needs."

Admission is free with admission to the fair. For more information about the Washington State Heart Gallery, visithttp://www1.dshs.wa.gov/heartgallery.