General Colin Powell has started an entire organization around Service to America with his America’s Promise – The Alliance for Youth. (see his guest column on page 5). America’s Promise serves as a nationwide catalyst for service to youth as well as a focal point to recognize and evaluate its progress. It urges public, private and non-profit organizations like the BSA to focus their combined talents and resources to improve the lives of our nation’s youth. Thousands of corporations, nonprofit organizations, philanthropic foundations, service providers, communities and national, state and local governments, as well as many individuals have joined this nationwide alliance.

“In order to succeed and grow, young people need access to all five America’s Promise Fundamental Resources.” These five resources serve as the catalyst, changing how America approaches the issue of helping at-risk youth.