WISH LIST $100: trip to the Supreme Court for 1 civics class; $1,000: 10-week internship for a young immigrant; $10,000: internships for 20 at nonprofit or government agencies.

Metropolitan Washington is the seventh-largest immigrant gateway in the US, but studies show that families of immigrant children cannot easily communicate the value of civic participation to their children, and that children do not use community resources as much as native families do. Liberty’s Promise addresses these gaps, combining professional development and civic education to sustain and support young immigrants in need (ages 15-21) while encouraging them to be active and conscientious American citizens. The idea is to make the immigrant experience an affirmative one, introduce immigrant youth to the democratic traditions of the US, and facilitate their transition to American life. The internship program places documented immigrants in non-profit, for-profit, government, and media internships, giving them valuable work experience. The civics program offers first-hand knowledge of local government and a real understanding of the benefits of civic participation. More than 230 students attended LPs latest presentations, hoping to apply for 20 positions (funding would allow more). An investment in LP is an investment in a great cause: maintaining America’s strength in diversity.

Dr Robert M Ponichtera, Executive Director 1010 Pendleton Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703.549.9950 www.libertyspromise.org