Rick Allen: “I congratulate Chairman Hollings and Senator Gregg for including in this appropriations measure a grant of $500,000 to…”

“I congratulate Chairman Hollings and Senator Gregg for including in this appropriations measure a grant of $500,000 to the National Capital Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America for its ``Learning for Life'' program that serves 20,000 students in Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland. This is not a new program; the Congress has funded it for the past two years. By continuing to fund ``Learning for Life'' for another year, thousands of young people in the Washington metropolitan area will be able to participate in an innovative program that helps them develop social and life skills, assists their character development, and helps them formulate positive personal values. ``Learning for Life'' is designed to support our schools in their efforts to prepare youth to successfully handle the complexities of contemporary society and to enhance their self-confidence and motivation. It prepares youth to make ethical decisions that will help them achieve their full potential. At a time when drugs and gangs are ravaging our schools and communities, this program is a catalyst to help stop this trend.”