(Bluefield)—The selection of Mercer County, WV as one of the “100 Best Communities for Young People” by the Alliance for Youth was made, in part, because of this community’s collaborative programs that benefit children and youth. Mercer County (the only West Virginia county selected for the honor) joins other winning communities—ranging from small towns to urban neighborhoods—saluted for their commitment to provide healthy, safe, and caring environments for their young people.

Over a nine-year period, the community coalition “Creating Opportunities For Youth” has reached out to area youth through grant-based programs designed to sway young people away from the pressures and influence of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. The county has gathered resources and includes representatives from sectors including youth, parents, schools, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, education, and businesses. The National Youth Sports Program (NYSP) summer camp for area youth at Bluefield State College is one of the initiatives that contributed to Mercer County’s selection among the “100 Best Communities’ NYSP recently concluded its seventh annual five-week season at BSC. The program is offered free of charge to participants, providing youth with instruction in swimming, team sports, math and science, and drug/alcohol education. Members of America’s Promise Alliance—including United Way of America, the U.S. Conference of Mayors, Junior Achievement, the YMCA, and other organizations—played leading roles in the “100 Best Communities” competition, a program launched in partnership with Capital One Financial Corporation.

September 30, 2005