    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [April 14, 2000]
    [Page 717]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on National Youth Service Day
    April 14, 2000

        This weekend, as we celebrate the 12th annual National Youth Service
    Day, I want to recognize the millions of young Americans across the
    country who give to their communities day-in and day-out. They are
    rebuilding our Nation's schools and neighborhoods and sparking a new
    spirit of civic engagement. And they know that service is not the work
    of just a single day; it is the work of a lifetime.
        In recent months we've had too many tragic reminders that young
    people pay the price when bonds of community and responsibility become
    frayed. But we should also remember that our children are our greatest
    resource and that, if we are to build a stronger, safer Nation, we
    should begin by empowering young people to make a difference. That's why
    I am so proud of the young citizens who have served in AmeriCorps. And
    that's why I am so proud of the many contributions that so many of our
    youth are making on this special day. Through the leadership of young
    Americans, all of us--whatever our age--can help keep alive our sense of
    opportunity, responsibility, and community.