Students to Attend National Smart Growth Conference
Washington, DC - A Youth Delegation of 33 high school students, representing more than 30 communities in 17 states and the District of Columbia has been chosen to attend the 2nd Annual New Partners for Smart Growth Conference taking place January 30th - February 1st in New Orleans. Organized by the Local Government Commission (LGC) and sponsored by over 100 public agencies, foundations and national associations, the conference features some of the nation's most distinguished smart growth experts.
All student expenses will be covered by scholarships provided by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the American Planning Association (APA), the Local Government Commission, U.S. Department of Energy Rebuild America Seattle Regional Office, and several local sponsors.
"Even before they become voters and taxpayers, young people can exercise civic leadership by voicing their opinions and educating others about smart growth options," noted APA Executive Director Paul Farmer. "That's why the American Planning Association is pleased to be supporting this program and why we always encourage our members to reach out and engage young people in their communities."
The youth delegates will arrive on January 29th and spend that evening and the following day in preparatory youth-only workshops. There, they will review how local and state governments work, learn about each other and their communities, and evaluate issues of concern.
During the conference students will participate in workshops alongside adults, and a number of youth delegates will be featured presenters in breakout and plenary sessions. Among the activities planned are a special panel organized by the California Center for Civic Participation and Youth Development on youth involvement in community building. After returning home, youth delegates will apply what they have learned in community projects to increase awareness of smart growth policy issues. For more information on the youth delegation, visit http://www.planning.org/newsreleases/2003/ftp012303.htm
