America’s Promise Alliance, the nation’s largest alliance dedicated to children and youth, announced that Fall River has, for the third time in a row, been named a winner of its 100 Best Communities for Young People  competition, a signature initiative of America’s Promise Alliance and an important part of the Grad Nation campaign. The  competition identifies cities nationwide that have made the well-being of children and youth a priority and are making extraordinary efforts to reduce dropout rates and provide outstanding services and supports to their youth. More than 300 communities in all 50 states applied for the honor. The 100 winning communities span 39 states and Fall River was one of six Massachusetts winners this year. The award to Fall River was announced over a nationwide web hook-up in front of about 100 students at the Kuss Middle School auditorium. Click here for the Herald News article about the event. Click here for the video. Click here for photos of the 2011 award. For more information, contact Fall River Youth Services Coordinator Christian McCloskey at 508-679-0922, Ext. 110..
 

(Top row) Greater Fall River Re-Creation Program Director Jamison Souza welcomes the students to the noontime program in the Kuss Middle School where they watch a live video hook-up with the America's Promise Alliance in Washington, D.C., where Alma Powell addresses students across the country. (Row two) Mr. Souza describes the competition and then waits for the announcement with Fall River Youth Services Coordinator Christian McCloskey. (Row three) Students wait to hear Fall River announced as a winner as Mr. McCloskey comes down to congratualte them. (Bottom row) Fall River School Superintendent Meg Mayo-Brown and Kuss Middle School Principal Michael Procaccini congratulate the students before Mr. McCloskey is interviewed by Channel 10 television.