Now is the time of year that Westchester County government develops its budget for 2013. This fall, we also will be electing New York State legislators and members of Congress. CLICK HERE to tell County officials, and those running for office, that you want them to put children and youth at the top of the public agenda.  

This fall, WCA's VOTE for KIDS New York initiative has asked voters, candidates and elected officials to put our children and youth at the top of the public agenda.  Election Day is November 6th, followed immediately by weeks of public discussion and debate about Westchester County's 2013 Budget. Early in the new year, debate begins on the New York State budget.  Let's send a clear message to our elected officials and candidates that children and youth must be the top priority for public investments. CLICK HERE to send your message directly to elected officials.  Over the coming weeks, candidates running for office will be notified of your participation in this advocacy campaign.  

Research and common sense tell us that investing in the healthy development of our children is the best investment we can make for their future, and for ours. Every dollar invested in high-quality programs - such as home visiting for new parents, early childhood education for pre-schoolers, truancy prevention or youth development for teens - yields an impressive return on investment of between $3 and $7. Join us to tell elected officials that we want them to make these smart investments in our future.

The more we stand together to demand smart choices for our future, the stronger that future will be. Please share this message with your friends, family, colleagues and neighbors and ask them to join us to make children our #1 priority.