Bill Clinton

“ In spite of barriers and stumbling blocks, most teens play by the rules as they begin the work of building meaningful lives for themselves and finding their places in the community. Most embrace and promote fairness and compassion, often championing such precepts when others forsake them as unattainable ideals. ”

“ There are now more than 24 million young people between the ages of 13 and 19 in the United States, each of them unique, each with promise, each struggling with the complicated transition to adulthood. These young people hold the keys to a promising future, and we must help them use every available resource to meet the challenges that lie ahead. ”

“ They are our future, our hope, and a very real joy to those of us who know them well.
We are justifiably proud of American teens. They deserve our recognition and appreciation, and it is fitting that we honor them. Our country depends on their energy and dedication. ”