[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 46 (Monday, November 19, 2007)]
[Page 1502]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks at a Dinner Honoring America's Promise Alliance

November 13, 2007

    Good evening. Laura and I welcome you all to the White House; sure 
glad you're here. Ten years ago, a group of spirited citizens came 
together in the hope that they could make a difference in the lives of 
our Nation's children. In the decade that followed, that hope became a 
dream, the dream became a mission, and that mission helped change the 
lives of countless children across our country.
    Through your mentoring programs and your work with at-risk youth, 
America's Promise has given opportunity to young Americans who never had 
it. You have put hope in the eyes of children who have never known it, 
and you have helped make real the promise of our Creator, that there is 
value and purpose in every single human life.
    The success of America's Promise is a tribute to the giving hearts 
of every person in this room, particularly those we honor with awards 
tonight. Yet I think all of us would agree that two people here deserve 
special mention, and they are Colin and Alma Powell.
    Throughout their lives, the Powells have answered our country's 
call. They've served our Nation in times of peace and war, and they have 
led, taught, and inspired Americans along the way. Not a bad record for 
two people who met 46 years ago only because their friends talked them 
into going into a--going on a blind date. [Laughter] Mr. Secretary and 
Alma, our country is fortunate that you both had such persuasive 
friends. [Laughter]
    I'd like to propose a toast to America's Promise, in gratitude for 
your first decade of public service--and a toast to America's children 
and a future that brings them love and peace and possibility.

Note: The President spoke at 7:43 p.m. in the State Dining Room at the 
White House. In his remarks, he referred to former Secretary of State 
Colin L. Powell and his wife, Alma, founding chair and current chair, 
board of directors, America's Promise Alliance.