[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 21 (Thursday, March 5, 1998)]
[House]
[Page H855]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HOPE NOW FOR YOUTH

  (Mr. RADANOVICH asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, Republicans have begun to downsize the 
institution of government through privatizing, localizing and 
eliminating Federal programs, and returning more power, money and 
decision-making to families and local communities. But that is not 
enough. As a society, we must release the power of religious and civic 
organizations to solve local problems.
  One such organization is Hope Now for Youth in Fresno, California. 
Hope Now for Youth hires religious, ethnic college students to serve as 
counselors for young men in Fresno who are involved in risky behavior. 
The counselors seek to provide the parenting that these kids have 
missed growing up. Other services include job training, job placement, 
and help with meeting basic needs.
  Hope Now for Youth does all of this without any government money. It 
is funded by individuals and businesses in Fresno who have taken 
personal responsibility to rebuild their own communities. It relies 
heavily on volunteers who give of their time and their love.
  Mr. Speaker, Hope Now for Youth is an effective local charity that is 
a positive role model for all Americans. Local charities like Hope Now 
for Youth deserve our support. Anyone wishing to find out more may 
contact my office.

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