March 3rd, 2011: Rally for Youth Day at the Capitol

On Wednesday of this week, the Youth Policy Alliance (YPA) began distributing some important materials to help prepare you and your youth for the 4th Rally for Youth Day at the Capitol! Many of you may have already received your application and Frequently Asked Question sheet via email or snail mail, but if you haven’t yet don’t fret! Applications and other information will be sent to you in the days, weeks and months to come. YIPA members can expect to receive their application materials on December 15th, 2010.

The YPA is a coalition of youth serving organizations, associations and alliances with a statewide presence working to ensure sound youth policy in Minnesota. The YPA has come together to create a framework of support that ensures all children and youth move into adulthood ready for life.

On behalf of the YPA, MN Youth Intervention Programs Association (MN YIPA) welcomes you, your staff, and your youth to join us on March 3rd, 2011 as we seek to educate our policy leaders about the need for a comprehensive youth system of services. If your organization houses a program that provides services for youth in any of the following areas, please consider working with the YPA to arrange meetings with your legislators:

Homelessness Prevention

Mentoring

Out-of-School Time

Youth Intervention

Workforce Development

Juvenile Justice

This day-long event will be organized in a way that will help youth familiarize themselves with the Capitol, the legislature, and communicating openly and honestly with legislators about issues involving them. Youth services do not exist or work in an exclusive, solitary environment to meet the needs of young people. We must engage communities and enact policies, which promote a comprehensive approach to youth policy ensuring that all young adults are ready for life.

If your organization wishes to participate in the full day's activities and has not received an application, please comment on this blog or contact me (Rachel) via email at promisefellow@mnyipa.org! We are asking that all applications be returned by January 21st, 2011. If you have any additional questions or need more information about the rally itself, please contact Lindsey Carlson at lindsey.carlson08@gmail.com.

Click here to RSVP to our facebook event!