How to be a Friend of Children and Youth

1. Be a role model. Children are watching you. They will learn from what you do, not what you say.

2. Reach out to a child. A smile or a word of encouragement can mean a lot, whether it comes from a parent or a passing stranger.

3. Reach out to a parent. Remember that all parents, rich and poor, want the same things for their children--a home, education, and a chance to succeed.

4. Keep an eye on local and national policy decisions that affect children. Find out who's for kids and who's just kidding, and elect officials who put caring into action.

5. Encourage parents and other people who care about kids to register and vote. Set up voter registration booths in schools, day care centers, clinics, wherever people gather.

6. Make your neighborhood an extended family. Organize a block party, a family clean-up day, or a neighborhood watch. Be sure to include people of all ages.

7. Write letters to the editor applauding people who help children and families. Blow the whistle on those who hurt them.

8. Make your workplace family friendly. Form a parents' support group; campaign for onsite day care; promote corporate contributions to your community schools and recreation programs.

9. Volunteer. Child welfare agencies, churches and temples, schools, recreation centers, children's hospitals, and other organizations need capable, caring adults to work with children.

10. Write a check. CWLA and America's children need your support.

© 2003