GLSEN First LGBT-Issues Focused Organization to Join America's Promise Alliance

NEW YORK, Sept. 21, 2009 - GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is pleased to announce that it has joined America's Promise Alliance (the Alliance), the nation's largest partnership alliance of more than 300 corporations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and advocacy groups that are dedicated to improving lives and changing outcomes for children.

GLSEN is the first organization focused on LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) issues to join America's Promise Alliance, founded in 1997 with General Colin Powell as its Chair, and led by Alma Powell, its current Chairperson.

"By safeguarding against bullying and harassment - regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity - GLSEN continues to be a leader in helping young people stay in school," said Marguerite Kondracke, President and CEO of America's Promise Alliance. "Safe places and an effective education are among America's Promise Alliance's founding principles. We are thrilled to welcome GLSEN as an Alliance Partner, and applaud its efforts to provide a safe learning environment for all students."

America's Promise Alliance works to ensure that all young people graduate from high school ready for college, work and life through an ongoing Dropout Prevention initiative. The Alliance's work involves raising awareness, encouraging action and engaging in advocacy to provide children the key supports called the Five Promises: caring adults, safe places, a healthy start, an effective education and opportunities to help others through service.

"GLSEN has admired the work of America's Promise Alliance since its founding," GLSEN Executive Director Eliza Byard said. "We are honored to join the Alliance and look forward to working with the organization and its partners to ensure that that all youth are valued and respected, and graduate from high school prepared for success."

The Alliance is made up of a diverse group of organizations, including American Academy of Pediatrics, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Hispanic Heritage Foundation, March of Dimes, National Association of Police Athletic/Activities League, National Education Association, National PTA, Salvation Army, U.S. Chamber of Commerce and United Way. For more information about America's Promise Alliance, visit www.americaspromise.org.

About GLSEN:
GLSEN, the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network, is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students. Established in 1990, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org