Saturday, April 16, is Global Youth Service Day in Arlington and across America.

Locally, the Arlington Alliance for Youth serves as the lead agency that is mobilizing hundreds of youth in service throughout their community. Global Youth Service Day is the largest service event in the world. It is the only day of service dedicated to youth.

"Global Youth Service Day does a great job of bringing schools, faith-based organizations and groups together to make a positive impact,"said Craig Wietz, president of Arlington Alliance for Youth.

"We are thankful for all the youth who are committed to making this day a big success in our city and around the world,"Wietz said.

In Arlington, most service project planning began in January on MLK Day. Community projects address wide arrange of social issues including health, literacy, childhood hunger and environmental conservation. All projects will culminate on GYSD.

Arlington GYSD Chairperson LaShaunn Bold is expecting close to 1,500 youth participants, which includes students from UT Arlington's Big Event also participating in service.

"The Arlington Alliance for Youth is thrilled to continue our participation in this great day of service-learning and caring,"she said. "It's not too late to get involved."

According to survey data compiled by Youth Service America, today's youth are uniquely suited to solve problems through volunteer service. Their data also found that service-learning leads to increased academic engagement. Volunteering also improves career and workforce readiness.

About the GYSD City Celebration

Arlington will celebrate GYSD during a City Celebration at the Levitt Pavilion in downtown Arlington from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on April 16. Awards will be presented for outstanding service projects and youth leaders.

The program will also include members of the Arlington Alliance for Youth, Arlington City Council and other special guests. Young Life, a non-denominational Christian ministry, will serve hot dogs and refreshments. Music will be provided by DJ Diamond K. In a partnership with Arlington Independent School District, AISD-TV will be on site to document the day with interviews with youth.

Learn more about the Arlington Alliance for Youth at www.ArlingtonAlliance4Youth.org.