Contact: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Thursday, September 18, 2008

The enthusiasm of the Bryan Station Steppin’ Defenders exemplifies the lessons of “teamwork, focus and perseverance,” according to Kentucky’s secretary of Health and Family Services. 

“Investment in our children today means a healthier, more productive Kentucky tomorrow,” Janie Miller said at Bryan Station High School, where the step team kicked off a United Way of the Bluegrass news conference on “Step Up for Kids Day.” 

The “step up” theme was reiterated Tuesday by several speakers, including Fayette County Public Schools superintendent Stu Silberman. 

“Education is the key to the future for all of our kids,” Silberman said, citing the growing global competition. “We can’t get to exactly where we want to be without the help of our community.” The United Way’s awareness push has a three-pronged approach:

• Education
• Income
• Health

“We have sharpened our focus on the building blocks of life,” United Way chairwoman Laura Voss said. “We must all do what we can to step up and make a difference for kids,” whether by giving money, volunteering time or advocating with lawmakers. 

The “LIVE UNITED” T-shirt – worn by the Bryan Station step team – is one means of outreach; Voss called it an invitation to “open your heart, lend your muscle and find your voice.” 

Step Up for Kids Day, which was a nationwide event, called on elected officials to make a stronger commitment to address children’s needs. At Bryan Station, the program included updates on United Way’s work with central Kentucky youth, a review of Gov. Steve Beshear’s initiative to improve kids’ access to insurance and health care, and an overview of the statewide Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children. 

Bill Stewart, chairman of Kentucky Youth Advocates, highlighted the Blueprint’s three main priorities:

• Safe and healthy families
• A fair deal for working parents
• Fair opportunities for every child

“Imagine a Kentucky that is the best place in the country – or the world – to be young,” he said. 

Silberman earlier expressed a similar sentiment, especially with regard to education, saying the school district is committed to partnering with the United Way.

“If we take the right steps with our kids, they can succeed at very high levels,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where a kid comes from … Every single child can achieve.”