Speak Out for Kids!
October 20, 2007
 

On October 20, 2007, the United Agenda for Children hosted a citizen engagement event called Speak Out for Kids.  During Speak Out for Kids, residents who demographically matched our community joined together to discuss the issues facing children in our community and to set priorities for our children in the areas of health, safety and education.

To see our monthly UPDATES, click on the "Get Involved" tab.

Click here to see our United Agenda for Children Coalition Members

Download our SUMMARY REPORT from Speak Out for Kids

Download the FINALREPORT and data analysis from Speak Out for Kids

Download the KEYS TO SUCCESS of the United Agenda for Children, prepared for the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation.

Download the YEAR ONE REPORT outlining the work of the United Agenda for Children in the year following Speak Out for Kids.

Download the MENTORING OPPORTUNITIES booklet.

Priorities in Education

Increase access to preschool education through increased childcare subsidies and additional preschool spaces
Develop programs that help young people make post graduation plans
Increase teacher pay
Create more after school programs
Improve school facilities
Provide parent education

Priorities in Health

Provide school nurses at nationally recommended ratios
Increase mental health services for children in the community and in schools 
Provide meals for children that are nutritious and include locally grown produce
Improve the health delivery system by preventing duplication and evaluating services
Provide sex education in schools

Priorities in Safety

Increase safe, affordable housing
Establish mentoring programs for at-risk kids
Provide alternatives for youth and teens - create social venues for them
Provide parent education to reduce abuse and delinquency in adolescents
Educate parents, teachers and students on drug prevention
Create a community forum for everyone involved in juvenile justice to get everyone on the same page

United Agenda for Children Implementation Team Members
This committee is responsible for guiding the implementation process of the priorities set at Speak Out for Kids.
 
Maurean Adams, Children and Family Resource Center

Betsy Alexander, Henderson County Department of Public Health

McCray Benson, Community Foundation of Henderson County

Ruth Birge, Interium Exectuive Director, United Way

David Cook, Interfaith Assistance Ministries

Elisha Freeman, UAC Priority Implementation Manager

Sonia Gironda, Smart Start of Henderson County

Steve Kirkland, United Way of Henderson County

Renee Kumor, Retired County Commissioner

Chuck McGrady, Henderson County Commissioner

Liston Smith, Henderson County Department of Social Services

Jamie Adrignola, Town Manager, Town of Mills River

Todd Webb, Webb and Senerchia Accountants