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Updates
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Investing in tomorrow
Roswell Daily Record
June 18, 2009
With our nation facing tough economic times it was inevitable that organizations relying on charitable donations would suffer the consequences of patrons tightening their belts. While Roswell seems to be weathering the current economic downturn better than many communities, the reality of the current financial slump has struck an alarming blow to two invaluable local programs.
Within the span of a week, the Roswell Boys & Girls Club and the First Tee program announced they are in financial distress. Word that the Boys & Girls Club would have to shut its doors, even if only temporarily, sent shock waves through program participants. Likewise, the potential loss of the First Tee program is a sobering thought.
Roswell has a wealth of programs dedicated to nurturing youngsters and improving their chances at becoming productive and law-abiding adults. In addition to the Boys & Girls Club and First Tee, these include Job Corps, New Mexico Youth ChalleNGe, Assurance Home, Yucca Center and others. Each has a unique set of resources which touch the lives of countless youths. Whether helping kids who have started down the wrong path reverse their course, or keeping children from ever straying from the road to a happy and successful life, these programs are responsible for caring for our future.
While it may seem prudent to cut back on charitable contributions during lean economic times, doing so is shortsighted. This is especially true when it comes to youth programs. Instilling a sense of morality and building self-esteem in our community's youth are at the heart many worthwhile local programs. Today is when we can have an impact on the future of our city. Investing in youth is never a waste of money. A few dollars now can prevent far greater expenses in the future.
Countless dollars are spent dealing with people who have forsaken the values of our society. The cost of future legal proceedings and incarcerations alone are worth the expenditures of today. There's also the cost to victims of theft to consider. Furthermore, no price tag can be placed on the victims of violent crime who might be spared the horror of being threatened, physically harmed or even killed if someone had intervened to help an at-risk youth.
Youth programs are a vital component of the Roswell community. While we may never know how many lives are being saved by these programs, if they are allowed to disappear, we will all face the consequences. We all benefit when we give youngsters a chance at a successful and fulfilling future. We must never forget that our success in life was not all our own doing, but also dependent on being encouraged and supported by our families and community. We are duty bound to do the same for the next generation.
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