Frank Lautenberg: “millions of young people in America live in areas where drug use, violent and property crimes are a way of life.…”

“millions of young people in America live in areas where drug use, violent and property crimes are a way of life. Unfortunately, many of these same young people come from one-parent homes, or from environments where there is no responsible, caring adult supervision. These at-risk children are on the brink-- their lives could go in either a positive or destructive direction. There is indisputable evidence, however, that at-risk children who have responsible adult mentors choose the right path. Mr. President, that is why today I am introducing legislation, the JUMP Ahead Act of 1997, that will take mentoring in this country to the next level to meet the needs of millions of at-risk youths and their families. All children and adolescents need caring adults in their lives, and mentoring is one effective way to fill this special need for at-risk children. The special bond of commitment fostered by the mutual respect inherent in effective mentoring can be the tie that binds a young person to a better future.”