The crises facing America's children know no political party. They affect everyone, and the statistics are staggering:

Thirty percent of this year's freshmen class will drop out of high school. The obesity rate for kids has tripled since 1980. Teenagers account for more than 20 percent of violent crime in the U.S.

This generation will one day lead our nation. Right now, they're not being equipped to meet the challenges posed by a complex world.

Yet it's a real problem that we have not addressed, a situation that should concern any American with an eye on the future. And it's an issue that should be as much part of this election as any - if not more.

It is daunting to think about solving such a widespread crisis, but those of us in youth organizations, such as the Boys & Girls Club of Lebanon, where I work, have seen it is possible to turn things around and help young people earn their high school diplomas, live healthy lifestyles and become effective community leaders.

By working with government officials, schools, community leaders and parents, we foster a supportive environment that puts the needs of children first. These partnerships create a seamless network of support - providing everything from homework help to leadership development programs to fitness and financial literacy.

Consider what we have underway here in Lebanon where our Boys & Girls Club works closely with the Lebanon School District and the city of Lebanon. Serving well over 2,000 youth, we provide after school programs featuring POWER HOUR homework assistance, and, in response to current need, a new math tutoring program especially for high school students struggling with algebra and geometry.

We offer organized athletics programs for kids from kindergarten through grade 8.

The Kids Club at the Boys & Girls Club provides an enriched day care environment for 3- to 6-year-olds.

Keystone and Torch Clubs give middle and high school youth a variety of leadership and community service experiences.

We recently partnered with Samaritan Health Services to offer a diabetes fair for children who suffer from this disease. In partnership with the Linn County Alcohol & Drug Prevention Program we are co-sponsoring a series of five sessions for parents of teens.

The value of such a network has been proven time and again. A national Harris survey found 90 percent of Boys & Girls Club alumni graduate from high school or obtain a GED. In fact, 92 percent of Club alumni said helping others in the community is a priority. Another 85 percent said club staff helped them understand the difference between right and wrong.

With Election Day fast approaching, the time to act is now. Ask candidates what they're doing to help today's young people become tomorrow's leaders. Tell them that you're holding them accountable - because every community's future is at risk.

If each of us takes an active role in advocating for our children, elected officials might just take action. With your support, America's next generation can be filled with hope - and opportunity.

Jason Yutzie is the chief professional officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Lebanon.