Cleo Fields: “I believe it is safe to say that each and every one of us in the U.S. House of Representatives is supportive of programs…”

“I believe it is safe to say that each and every one of us in the U.S. House of Representatives is supportive of programs that provide our young people with learning opportunities. Today, Mr. Speaker, I would like to spotlight an organization that has for the last 8 years, provided students an opportunity to study leadership and Government in this Nation's Capital. The Congressional Youth Leadership Council is an educational organization dedicated to fostering and inspiring young people to achieve their full leadership potential. Through the Council's initiatives over the past 3 years, the participation of under-represented minorities at the conferences has increased from 6 percent to over 13 percent. The scholarship fund which was implemented in January of this year is designed to assist financially and traditionally disadvantaged or physically challenged youth who wish to participate in the NYLC. The Congressional Youth Leadership Council is earmarking nearly $100,000 annually for scholarships based on students' scholastic merit, leadership achievements, financial need, and other factors.”