National Convening Program Books 2014 YEO National Convening Program Book | Page 3

WELCOME
Dear Young Elected Officials:

Welcome to the YEO Network’s annual National Convening.

I am proud to welcome you here as a part of the YEO Network
and greater People For family. We commend you for the work that
you’ve already done to advance the “American Way” of equality,
justice, and freedom for all. And importantly, we look forward to all
you can create and accomplish together and in your own communities.
This event never fails to inspire me. The dedicated efforts of the YEO Network
staff as well as the talent and innovation you bring to this gathering ensure that
the 2014 National Convening will be a success. While we are thrilled to support you in any way
we can, we also enjoy hearing and learning from you. This mutual support is what makes the
partnership between People For the American Way Foundation and each of you so rewarding.
Over the past nine years, the YEO Network has grown from a simple idea into a powerful national
movement. But we’re not done yet. From your work on voting rights to reproductive choice to
gun violence prevention, as young elected officials you have the power to inspire others and
truly effect meaningful change now. Our country needs your values, your contributions – it needs
your leadership.
I’m looking forward to seeing many old friends and meeting some of you for the very first time
in the coming days and hearing about the valuable work you’re doing to advance opportunity
and equality in your communities.
Sincerely,

Michael Keegan
President
People For the American Way Foundation