How would 44 Student Government Association members choose to spend a weekend? Strategizing about upcoming campus elections? Discussing the state of their campuses and student bodies? Connecting with administration on campus policies?

In February 2008, they chose to spend their weekend at the historic CDF Haley Farm developing strategies to assist children. After being reminded of the alarming statistics that more than 13 million children live in poverty, one in three Black boys born in 2001 stands a chance of becoming incarcerated, and more than nine million children remain uninsured in the United States; after being inspired by Civil Rights advocates and videos; and after sharing the unique challenges inherent on their campuses and communities, these student leaders, representing 44 historically black colleges and universities (HBCU), developed a plan and made a commitment to becoming effective child advocates on their campuses.

Read a full synopsis of the weekend retreat.

During National HBCU Youth Outreach Month in April 2008, students connected with area schools to provide mentoring and motivational programming to school-aged children and youth and developed creative programming designed to promote child health, education, and advocacy that will help children across this nation succeed. These student leaders recognized the power of their collective voice in building a movement for children.

If you are a student, alumni, faculty, employee or neighbor of an HBCU and would like to support their work, please contact us at sgapresidents@childrensdefense.org.