Tom Key, famed

actor and creator of the "Cotton Patch Gospel," will be the

speaker at the ninth annual benefit dinner for the Fayette Youth Protection

Homes.

The event is

at the Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center Nov. 26.

The Friday

Home in north Fayette County and the Johnson home in south Fayette house

16 children for extended care with four additional beds for emergencies.

The majority of the children served are from Fayette County. The association

has been operating since 1989.

Key is the

producing artistic director of Theatrical Outfit, which has earned 12

"best of year" notices in the Atlanta Journal and Constitution,

Creative Loafing, Southern Voice and the Atlanta Magazine.

He has followed

the work of local youth protection associations and his readings will

reflect his interest through Christmas themes.

"Our goal

is to clear $40,000 for this event," said Jane Gough, development

coordinator for the local charity. "This Christmas, more than ever,

we need to remember the problems in our own back yard and invest in the

future of our children."

She can be

reached at 770-716-8420 for reservations, or phone Asden Johnson, 770-461-2388.