Summit on future seeking delegates

Tuesday, Feb. 18, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

A Las Vegas delegation of voluntary alliances, educators, business leaders and governmental groups is being assembled to participate in the President's Summit for America's Future.

The United Way of Southern Nevada is putting together the Las Vegas delegation for the event, April 27-29, in Philadelphia.

The goal of the summit is to mobilize millions of Americans and thousands of organizations to ensure that young people enjoy fulfilling and productive lives and have access to:

* An ongoing relationship with a caring adult.

* A safe place to learn and grow.

* Marketable skills through effective education.

* A healthy start.

* An opportunity to give back.

The summit is supported by President Clinton, co-honorary chairman of the event, and past presidents, including George Bush, who is the other honorary chairman.

Retired Gen. Colin Powell has been named chairman of the event.

"Our community already has a number of initiatives ... which tie directly to the goals of the summit," said Garth Winckler, president of the local United Way chapter.

Among them are the United Way's "High School Graduation Initiative," "Success by Six," the "Baby Your Baby" project and the "Family to Family Connection," all co-sponsored by businesses or community leaders.

"These are all examples of collaborative action in support of our youth that involve many community organizations," Winckler said. "This summit should help us focus our existing efforts as well as welcome additional groups to participate."

Each community has been asked to assemble 10 to 12 representatives to attend the summit and exchange ideas, then coordinate efforts in their own communities.

Those interested in participating in the program can contact Deborah Campbell at 734-2273. A meeting is planned for early March.