The foundation of a healthy democracy depends upon an informed and engaged citizenry, yet active political engagement is in decline, especially among young adults. According to research by the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, of the four active generations today – Matures, Baby Boomers, GenX, and Millenials (those born between 1980 and 2000) – the Millenials have the lowest voter registration rates, lowest voting rates, and lowest political volunteerism rates. Millennials also contact public officials at lower rates than their elders, follow public affairs less, and pay attention to news at lower rates than their elders. In 2004, only 47% of 18 – 24 year old citizens voted, compared with 66% of citizens age 25 and older.

Leading up to Elections ’08, the WHRO Center for Regional Citizenship is launching a campaign to engage the community for more informed and active participation in the political process. This campaign includes PBS and NPR special coverage of the national presidential elections, regular radio reports on local and state politics provided by the Capitol News Connection; and a robust website supporting interactive tools to encourage citizen involvement. The website will go live in early spring:

www.betherebecounted.org.

The Center for Regional Citizenship extends the impact of public broadcasting with a goal to build civic, social and educational capital in Hampton Roads. For more information on the CRC, please visit the website at http://whro.org/home/cfc .