Friday, September 30, 2005
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Congratulates Missouri Cities Named in 100 Best Communities for Young People
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt extended his congratulations to Kansas City, Springfield, St. Joseph and St. Louis City recognizing the cities as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People as honored by America’s Promise- The Alliance For Youth. They were chosen based on their commitment to provide a healthy, safe and caring upbringing for America’s youth.
According to America’s Promise, in Kansas City 78 percent of incoming freshman graduate from high school compared to 68 percent nationally. Alcohol consumption by eighth graders has been reduced from 41.1 percent in 1995 to 28.8 percent in 2004. Fifty-four percent of eighth, tenth, and twelfth grade students take part in volunteer work.
In Springfield 39 percent of graduates scored at or above the national average on the ACT. The graduation rate is 80.4 percent. In 2003 youth involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield participated in approximately 5,000 hours of community service.
In St. Joseph the graduation rate is 88 percent, and 60 percent of graduates attend institutions of higher education. The drop out rate has decreased from 26.5 percent to 11.9 percent in a ten year period. Approximately 21 percent of young adults ages 18 to 24 volunteered at least 15 hours per month throughout the year.
In St. Louis City 62 percent of students graduated from high school in 2004 compared to 44 percent four years ago. The Lead Safe St. Louis initiative is studying childhood lead poisoning and has a goal of eliminating the problem by 2010. More than 200 youth have participated in the St. Louis Family Court- Juvenile Division’s Community Service and Restitution program.
America’s Promise was founded by Colin Powell in 1997. America’s Promise is comprised of nonprofits, corporations and community groups. They work to ensure the success of young adults with the focus on five promises. The five promises are: adults who are actively involved in the youth’s life; a safe place to learn; a healthy start to adulthood; a strong education; and a chance to help others. For more information on America’s Promise and a complete list of the 100 best communities visit www.americaspromise.org.
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