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CHICAGO,
April 29, 2005 - The Alternative Schools Network (ASN) was named today
as the first recipient of a new award from the office of Governor Rod
Blagojevich. Known as PATH Awards - People are Today's Heroes," the
award recognizes groups or individuals who, through their hard work and
commitment, have improved the lives of people in their community in the
areas of health care, public safety, education and economic development.
The awards are chosen by and presented through state agencies, and the
Alternative Schools Network Award was made via the Illinois Department
of Children and Family Services.
"Since
1973, the ASN has been one of the nation's leading advocates for out-of-school
and jobless youth between 16 and 24 years old," said Gov. Blagojevich.
"In Chicago's neighborhoods, ASN is making a meaningful difference
in the lives of countless young people and adults who need education and
training to help them lead productive and meaningful lives."
Department
of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Director Bryan Samuels presented
the Governor's PATH Award to ASN Executive Director Jack Wuest.
"As
the number of older youth who 'age out' of the DCFS system continues to
increase, the benefit and impact of the services ASN provides will become
even more important.
At DCFS, we appreciate our strong partnership with ASN to help jobless
and out-of-school youth," says Samuels.
ASN is a
Chicago-based nonprofit organization that provides quality education with
a specific emphasis on inner-city children, youth and adults. ASN supports
community-based and community-run programs to develop and expand training
and other educational services in Chicago's inner-city neighborhoods.
Director
Samuels presented the Governor's PATH Award on behalf of Governor Rod
Blagojevich at a forum convened by ASN, World Business Chicago, the Chicagoland
Chamber of Commerce, the Chicago Community Trust, and the Woods Fund of
Chicago. Today's event is the third in a series of public policy discussions
regarding youth joblessness and the dropout crisis.
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Contact:
Diane Jackson
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
312-814-6847
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