The 2008 Election proved that young people have become a powerful new voting bloc in politics. Millions of young people voted for the first time last year.  The key concern for those who care deeply about protecting our precious freedom is whether these young voters will join the battle in defending our liberty. Capitol Resource Institute’s City on the Hill Youth Leadership Conference addresses this concern.

Now in our 25th year, City has helped train some of California’s finest young leaders who have gone on to serve their communities in many different capacities. One alumna served as an assembly member in the legislature. Others work for legislators, putting to use the skills they acquired at City.

During the week-long conference students aged 14-18 from all across California become mock legislators. They carry real legislation being debated that year in the actual legislature. While busy passing their bills through committee hearings, and debating legislation in floor sessions, they must also contend with the political aspect of governing as they run for party leadership.

Nowhere else can young leaders obtain such hands-on training for the political and governing arenas. The apex of the conference is the final day, when students debate their bills on the actual floor of the California legislature. Perhaps the greatest testament to City’s impact is the students who return year after year to continue honing their skills.

I can think of no better way to preserve the future of our nation than to support the training of our future leaders. The City on the Hill scholarship fund needs support as our requests for scholarships are increasing every year. Please consider sponsoring a student by sending a donation to City on the Hill. For $400, you can make a huge difference in the life of a young leader and provide the training they need to continue defending our freedom in Sacramento and Washington, DC.