"Step Up for Kids" this election

As the race for the White House - and many other national and local offices - nears the finish line, children shouldn't be left in the dust.

Dozens of Arizona community organizations are working together to educate candidates and voters about issues that affect children and teens, and their families. This group of 30 organizations is hosting a non-partisan forum, "Step Up for Kids," so Arizona teens and young adults can "speak up" about what candidates can do to "step up" for kids.

Step Up for Kids is a national campaign to spotlight children's issues during this campaign season. The campaign features events in Washington, D.C. and 48 state capitols on September 16. The national sponsor is Every Child Matters, a non-profit, non-partisan organization working to make children, youth, and families a national political priority.

The Arizona event is being held on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at North High School Auditorium, 1101 E Thomas Rd in Phoenix. It will feature a panel of young Arizonans from a variety of backgrounds who will share their thoughts with local leaders, candidates and journalists about what public leaders should do to improve the conditions and opportunities for youth. Audience members will be able to submit questions for consideration by the panel.

This informative and interactive forum is free and open to the public. For more information, go to www.azchildren.org or contact Brenda Aguirre at Children's Action Alliance, baguirre@azchildren.org or 602-266-0707.

You can have a voice in this election - join us and "step up for kids."