With prejudice and violence continuing to cause issues in universities and communities nationwide, reports demonstrate many young people have hate-related words used towards them at college and are often exposed to hate-related graffiti.

Although moms and dads perform a vital purpose in assisting their youngsters produce positive attitudes about diversity, they can't do it by yourself. Neighborhood programs may have a major affect.

Not long ago, Boys & Girls Clubs of America announced its national rollout of "Youth for Unity," an interactive program designed to build the ability of local Boys & Girls Clubs to help youthful individuals better understand variety and combat prejudice, bigotry and discrimination.

The program, available to some 4 million young people at more than 3,700 Boys & Girls Clubs locations, incorporates activities for youth, peer-leadership applications and resources for moms and dads.

"Youth for Unity delivers perspectives and skills that will help youth adapt and thrive in a diverse society," said Judith J. Pickens, senior vice president for program and youth development services for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "The Youth for Unity program is one of several ways Boys & Girls Clubs of America continues to provide vital youth services in response to our nation's shifting demographics."

In a 2005 survey of Boys & Girls Clubs members, 50 percent of respondents said they believe their moms and dads would not approve if they dated someone from another race, religion or ethnic group. Ten percent of students ages 12 to 18 reported that someone at school had utilized hate-related words against them, and 33 percent had seen hate-related graffiti.

The Youth for Unity program is part of a larger Boys & Girls Clubs of America diversity initiative funded by a $4.5 million commitment from The Allstate Foundation. - NU