What is National Runaway Prevention Month
November is National Runaway Prevention Month. Since 2002, this campaign's goals, spearheaded by the National Runaway Switchboard (NRS) and the National Network for Youth (NN4Y), have been to:
• Increase the awareness of the issues facing runaways, and
• Educate the public about the solutions and the role they can play in preventing youth from running away.
National efforts put a voice to this national problem. In October 2002, President Bush hosted the landmark White House Conference on Exploited and Runaway Children. Leaders from across the country convened to discuss challenges related to runaway youth that our nation must face today. The responsibility to protect America’s young people is shared by all members of our society, by government at every level, and by parents in every home.
Over the years, members of Congress have taken steps to commemorate National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM); supporting and recognizing its goals and ideals by introducing both House and Senate Resolutions. Proud sponsors of NRPM resolutions have included Rep. Judy Biggert (R-IL), Rep. Ruben Hinojosa (D-TX), Rep. Jon Porter (R-NV), Rep. Steve Israel (D-NY), Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA), Sen. Susan Collins (R- ME), Sen. Orrin Hatch (R- UT), Sen. Richard Shelby (R-AL) and Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-AK).
Also, in October 2005, England’s Children’s Society invited NRS to speak with members of the British Parliament. Spurred by the priority the United States has placed on the needs of runaway and homeless youth, the Children’s Society called on the British Government to set up a national network of shelters for runaway children—similar to the system of care including NRS' hotline and referral model used by NRS in the US.
When a youth runs away, the impact is felt throughout the entire community. All of us—individuals, businesses, community groups, teachers, elected officials, and human service agencies—are encouraged to participate in National Runaway Prevention Month. Working together to identify resources and to help youth develop life skills can make the difference between a youth running away and/or finding needed resources.
Visit the How to Support National Runaway Prevention Month section to learn how you can participate and observe National Runaway Prevention Month in your school, business, and community.
