National Runaway Prevention Month

WHEREAS, studies show that each year in the United States, between 1.6 and 2.8 million youth live on the streets; and

WHEREAS, running away from home is widespread; youth ages twelve to seventeen are at a higher risk of homelessness than adults; and

WHEREAS, effective programs supporting runaway youth and assisting youth and their families in remaining at home succeed because of partnerships created among families, community-based human service agencies, law enforcement agencies, schools and faith-based organizations; and

WHEREAS, preventing youth from running away from home and supporting youth in high-risk situations is a family, community and national priority; and

WHEREAS, the future well-being of the State of Alabama is dependent upon the opportunities provided for youth and their families to acquire the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for youth to develop into safe, healthy and productive adults; and

WHEREAS, the goal of Runaway Prevention Month is to increase public awareness of the life circumstances of youth in high-risk situations and the need for safe, healthy and productive alternatives, resources and supports for youth, families and communities:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim November 2011, as

National Runaway Prevention Month

in the State of the Alabama.

 

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 15th day of November 2011.

 

                                                                                ___Governor Robert Bentley