Introduction and Question

[Robin L. Aldrich]

Dear Tamara,

    Hello and welcome.  I too am new to this listserv, and may have some
information for you.  When you have time, check out www.theyouthvoice.net
website.  This is a program run out of Indianapolis, IN, currently
implemented at a few sites around the state.  The following will give you a
little information on The Youth Voice Program:

    Our Vision:  "To connect youth in Indiana to their communities &
government by empowering them to express their ideas and opinions, by
engaging them in the process of social change, and by valuing the community
as a dynamic entity worthy of representation and investment."

    Our Mission:  "The Youth Voice is dedicated to empowering youth through
technology to voice their ideas for social change to community leaders and
policy makers.

    Our Efforts:  The Youth Voice is based on three primary efforts:

                    1.  Design and development of our website located at
                 www.theyouthvoice.net

                    2.  Active involvement of Youth Voice Councils led by
adult                        mentors and Youth Voice Ambassadors to educate
youth on
         social action and assist in our youth voice campaign.

                    3.  Active involvement of youth in numerous youth serving
                         organizations throughout the state of Indiana.

    Although it is an Indiana-based program, I'm sure you would find it
interesting and full of ideas.  The director of Youth Voice is Bill Baugh,
who is based in Indy.  I will be happy to put you in touch with him if you
wish.  He could be a great resource for you.

    Please feel free to contact me with any other questions you have.  Our
agency is one of the few in the state to have implemented this program so
far, and we are still very much in our infancy.  We have a small, but
dedicated group of students currently working on the development of our
group's structure and mission.  It's an exciting time for us, and I am happy
to share our progress with anyone interested.

    Good luck in Florida!!

<p><p>Sincerely,

Robin L. Aldrich
Program Coordinator
Youth Resources of Southwestern Indiana, Inc.