[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 6 (Monday, February 4, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S281]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       ALLIANCE FOR YOUTH PROGRAM

  Mr. ROCKEFELLER. Mr. President, last Friday the children in my State 
of West Virginia had reason to celebrate. I am delighted to announce 
that the Communities in Schools Program and America's Promise have 
joined to form a new partnership aimed at giving our children resources 
that help them to stay in school and be successful in life. This 
exciting new program, launched on January 31, 2002, is called the 
Alliance for Youth.
  Bill Milliken, Communities in Schools CEO and West Virginia Governor 
Bob Wise joined together last week to signal the start of a major 
initiative to help students. The Alliance for Youth combines the 
missions of education and community service with the goal of making 
each more accessible to students in West Virginia. Through the 
Alliance, children can connect with concerned adults and have a safe 
place where they can develop useful life skills, have a wholesome start 
in life, and have the opportunity to become involved in their 
communities. As a former VISTA worker, I personally know how public 
service can change and improve someone's life. Providing more 
opportunities for public service will help both the communities served 
and the students involved. By helping to shape the lives of our 
children, the Alliance for Youth Program is making the most important 
investment in our future.
  Years ago, the National Commission on Children which I chaired, 
challenged society in general to create a moral climate for our 
children. The Alliance for Youth Program responds to this challenge. We 
all understand that the chances for children's success are tied to 
quality education, strong child development, and strong support from 
family and caring adults. It is my hope that the Alliance for Youth 
will continue the worthy and important work of providing children with 
extra support for a successful start in life. I applaud this new 
partnership, and I look forward to seeing the results of its valuable 
work.

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