What is National Runaway Prevention Month
November is National Runaway Prevention Month. It is a public education campaign spearheaded by the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) and the National Network for Youth (NNY) to:
- Increase the awareness of the issues facing runaways, and
- Educate the public about the solutions and the role they can play in preventing youth from running away
National efforts put a voice to this national problem. In October 2002, President Bush hosted the landmark White House Conference on Exploited and Runaway Children. Leaders from across the country convened to discuss challenges related to runaway youth that our nation must face today. The responsibility to protect America's young people is shared by all members of our society, by government at every level, and by parents in every home.
In the 109th Congress, members have taken steps to commemorate Prevention Month. Representative Jon Porter (R-NV) introduced House Resolution 484 on October 6, 2005, with six co-sponsors; including Judy Biggert (R-IL) and Rubén Hinojosa (D-TX) to support goals and ideals of National Runaway Prevention Month. Congressman Hinojosa presented his most recent endorsement on the floor of the House on October 25th.
Also, in October 2005, England's Children's Society invited NRS to speak with members of the British Parliament. Spurred by the priority the United States has placed on the needs of runaway and homeless youth, the Children's Society is calling on the British Government to set up a national network of shelters for runaway children – similar to the hotline and referral model used by NRS in the US.
When a youth runs away, the impact is felt throughout the entire community. All of us – individuals, businesses, community groups, teachers, elected officials, and human service agencies – are encouraged to participate in National Runaway Prevention Month. Working together to identify resources and to help youth develop life skills can make the difference between a youth running away, or a youth finding needed resources.
Visit the How to Support National Runaway Prevention Month section to learn how you can participate and observe National Runaway Prevention Month in your school, business, and community.
