On a recent trip to Washington, DC, Danielle Perkins, Kimberly Bash, Barbara Brahm, and Tayler Finsel represented Findlay-Hancock County at the America's Promise Alliance's 100 Best Communities for Young People.  They were selected to represent Findlay, and receive the award for their work on behalf of children and youth in Findlay and Hancock County.  Alma Powell, and other nationally recognized leaders in education; healthcare, media and public policy hosted the event

The America's Promise Alliance builds upon the legacy of its founder, General Collin Powell.  Founded in 1997 at a gathering in Philadelphia, Presidents Clinton, Bush, Carter, and Ford (with Nancy Regan representing President Regan), challenged America to make children and youth a National priority.  The Alliance is committed to seeing that children experience the fundamental resources they need to succeed - the five promises (caring adults, safe places, a healthy start, an effective education and opportunities to help others) - at home and out in the community.

The Alliance was born of the recognition that when too many children are at risk, we are a nation at risk.  With less than one-third of America's young people receiving the essential resources they need for success.  In many parts of the nation we are witnessing an increased risk of substance abuse, crime, and school dropouts among Americas youth.

"The 100 Best National Forum is a very special event for the Alliance because it allows us to honor those communities across the country that try to exemplify what it means to care and support our young people," said Marguerite W. Kondracke, President and CEO, America's Promise Alliance.  "These tireless advocates are on the front lines every day, teaching our children, keeping them safe and ensuring they stay in school.  By bringing them all together under one roof we can learn from their outstanding work and feel inspired to do more."

First held in 2005, 100 Best is a bi-annual competition held by the Alliance to recognize the outstanding efforts of cities and towns, large and small, rural and urban and to make young people a top priority.  Findlay-Hancock County is a three-time winner (2005, 2007, and 2008).  To learn more about the 100 Best Communities for Young People visit:  www.americaspromise.org/100best