Share Why You Care: Because Texas will be Better Off
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Share Why You Care: Because Texas will be Better Off
10/5/2012 3:50:23 PM
I'm a seventh generation Texan on both sides of my family tree. I attended Texas public schools for 13 years--and sat through my requisite Texas history classes. I spent an additional seven years studying at the University of Texas. I've learned that everything is bigger and better in Texas; I've lived it, and I believe it. I have Texas running through my veins. I'm proud to be a Texan. And, I care.

Sure, there are things that are not to be proud of about Texas. We consistently rank in the bottom among the states in health care, mental health and education--and the list goes on. But I care because I know a state as grand as Texas, with an amazing and diverse citizenry--all great Texans--can do better. And with the hard work and dedication of those who care, I know it will.

I care because every child in Texas deserves a chance to live up to her potential--to live up to Texas' potential. Every child deserves a quality education, access to healthy food, health care, the support of loving caring adults, and the support of her state. All of those things help create a foundation for success. Without providing all of Texas' beautiful children getting the supports they need today, we are not supporting the bigger and better Texas of tomorrow.

I care because when I walk through juvenile justice facilities in Texas, I see the potential in the kids there locked up. With the appropriate supports and access to quality education, they can be on a path to success. I care because I want to see kids get those supports in their communities and in their schools so that their paths never stray to the juvenile justice system.

I have friends across the country ask me why I stay in Texas when I could go anywhere else. My answer is always the same: because I care. I care about Texas. I care about Texans. I want Texas to live up to its potential.

I want to leave Texas a better place than I found it.

Editor's note: This is part of our Share Why You Care series, where members of our staff and network share why children are part of their focus in these critical weeks leading up to the election and the months before the legislative session. To check out earlier contributions, read posts by our CEO Eileen, our child welfare expert Ashley, and our membership and development director Sondra.
Posted by: Lauren Rose | Submit comment | Tell a friend

Categories: Advocacy  |  Child Wellbeing  |  Juvenile Justice


 

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