Bellevue again named top community for youth

For a fifth time, a national children's advocacy group has included Bellevue on its list of 100 best communities for young people, an honor that comes with a $2,500 grant. America’s Promise Alliance, which includes corporations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and advocacy groups, cited Bellevue for its top public schools and two city programs – Bellevue Youth Link and Wrap-Around Services.

October 19, 2011 3:17 pm

For a fifth time, a national children’s advocacy group has included Bellevue on its list of 100 best communities for young people, an honor that comes with a $2,500 grant.

America’s Promise Alliance, which includes corporations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and advocacy groups, cited Bellevue for its top public schools and two city programs – Bellevue Youth Link and Wrap-Around Services.

“We are so proud of Bellevue for being named one of the America’s Promise Alliance’s 100 Best again this year,” said Mayor Don Davidson. “This award recognizes the hard work of many community organizations and individuals who have dedicated their time and resources to make a difference in the lives of our young people.”

Youth Link is a youth leadership program the city cosponsors with the school district. Wrap-Around Services is a collaboration with the school district, the YMCA, Boys & Girls Club of Bellevue, United Way and other organizations to provide a network of resources for the students of Lake Hills and Stevenson elementary schools and Odle Middle School and their families.

While the city has not yet determined how the grant will be spent, it is likely to be used for the Youth Link program.