e Parks;
the support offered by the Division of Workforce Development;
and the dedication and involvement of Missouri’s outstanding Workforce Investment Boards, these youth will enter our workforce with sharper skills, stronger habits, and clearer sense of purpose.
And when they’re called upon to lead and to serve, whether on the job or for our country, they will be ready.
And so, this evening, I thank the leaders of Missouri’s 14 local Workforce Investment Boards; the superintendents of our state parks and historic sites; and all the interpreters, naturalists, maintenance supervisors and other park employees who made the first year of the State Parks Youth Corps a resounding success.
And I ask you to stand with us again next year. We have formed an incredible partnership that is producing tangible results – for our economy, for our parks, and for the youth of Missouri.
This year, we began a transformation. But the goals we set for the State Parks Youth Corps weren’t something we could accomplish in just one summer. We need to continue our efforts next year, and in the years to come, to build a legacy of excellence and service.
In the coming weeks, Julie Gibson, Bill Bryan and their teams will begin reaching out to follow up on today’s working session and to start the recruiting process for 2011. I ask that you share your ideas, suggestions, comments and criticisms openly and honestly. We need input from everyone around the table.
More than 75 years ago, Franklin Roosevelt had a vision. To preserve America’s natural beauty. To enhance our parks. To boost an ailing economy, and build leaders for tomorrow.
We are the keepers of that vision today.
The State Parks Youth Corps builds on the legacy handed down by the CCC, to ensure the future of conservation and recreation in Missouri:
A future where Missouri families can enjoy a beautiful October day along the Katy Trail;
A future where young people can try to outsmart a trout in a crystal-clear stream at Bennett Spring, Montauk, or Roaring River;
A future where young men and women can take pride in their trails they’ve built; the brush they’ve cleared; and the tradition they have continued.
These are the treasures of our Missouri State Parks.
And these are the treasures we can, we must, and we will protect as we continue the State Parks Youth Corps next year.
Thank you. And good night.