Funding for youth programs in jeopardy.

For 35 years our summer Youth Conservation Corps program has helped thousands of Twin Cities youth build self-confidence and make a lasting difference in their own communities.

As we prepare for our 2011 program, we are reminded of the significance of this program. So far this year, we have received nearly 1,000 applications, demonstrating the program’s importance.

Our summer program exists because of State and Federal funding. This funding from the government accounts for more than 85% of what we need to operate the program. The more money we receive, the more youth we can serve.

As you may know, the State Legislature and Governor are faced with a large deficit as they work out this year’s budget. One item on the chopping block: the Minnesota Youth Program, one of the critical sources of funding for our summer program.

We have already reduced the size of this program because of cuts in Federal funding. If Minnesota Youth Program funding is cut, it will reduce the number of youth we can serve even more.

You can help.

Contact your local representative today. Ask him/her to keep the Minnesota Youth Program in the 2011 budget at the same level as in 2010.

To find your representative, visit http://www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/districtfinder.aspx or call Felecia at 952-767-3884.