The catchy answer is that young people are this Nation's most valuable resource. The reality is that youth are a resource that communities can no longer afford to ignore. When we fail to provide youth with support and opportunities, they may grow into adults who are unemployed, who experience drug or alcohol problems, who commit crimes, and who become a drain on community resources. Youth who are nurtured by caring adults, who are given opportunities to become involved in work or education that builds their skills, who receive support and protection during challenging times, and who are actively engaged in service to the community become valuable contributors to the quality of community life. Engaging youth in communities simply makes sense, both fiscally and ethically.