America's Promise

Grand Forks is Named One of
100 Best Communities for Young People

Grand Forks, ND – America’s Promise – The Alliance for Youth, the nation’s largest alliance dedicated to children and youth, announced that Grand Forks, for the third year in a row, has been named a winner of its 2010 100 Best Communities for Young People (100 Best)competition presented by ING a global financial services company and leading provider of retirement plans and programs for teachers. Its 2010 recognition marks the fourth win for Grand Forks in the competition.

“Through its innovative and far-reaching programs, Grand Forks is taking bold and effective steps to help their young people graduate and lead healthy, productive lives,” said Marguerite W. Kondracke, America’s Promise Alliance president and CEO. “Grand Forks serves as an example to inspire and educate other communities across the nation to tackle the challenges facing their city and children, and to implement initiatives that give them the essential resources they need to succeed in life.”

Grand Forks Mayor Michael R. Brown said the award makes him extremely proud. “I’ve said for years that Grand Forks is a great place to live, learn, work, play and stay. You don’t get recognized by a prestigious organization like America’s Promise Alliance four years in a row without outstanding efforts from school officials, teachers and staff, community organizations and professionals, as well as the countless volunteer coaches and mentors,” Brown said.

Grand Forks was named one of the nation’s 100 Best because of the city’s collaborative approach to encourage youth leadership. The Grand Forks Youth Commission, a joint public and private initiative, provides 14 middle and high school students with the opportunity to develop self-confidence, leadership skills, and decision-making abilities in the creation of community policies. Commission members are encouraged to freely express their opinions and suggestions in community planning and also providing input on the development of a community wellness center.

A complete list of winners can be found at www.americaspromise.org.

Press Release

Links:

United Way
Safe Kids
Lutheran Social Services
4Fourteen - Youth for Christ
YMCA
Mayors Cabinet on Young People
Grand Forks Youth Commission
Grand Forks Public Health
It’s Not Ok!
Just Say Hi!
Grand Forks Police Department




City of Grand Forks
255 N 4th Street * Grand Forks, ND 58203 * Phone (701) 746-INFO