Education & Sacrifice: A Call to Action

In a state of economic recession, near depression, deflation, and what some have called extraordinary times, we are faced with a decision.

In his speech on the American Recovery & Re-Investment Plan to jumpstart the economy, President-Elect Obama gave every American a call to action. He reiterated a theme: we must make sacrifices. I feel a renewed sense of commitment & urgency from Obama's words, particularly by his stance on education for all of our young people: "We could lose a generation of potential and promise, as more young Americans are forced to forego dreams of college….And our nation could lose the competitive edge that has served as a foundation for our strength and our standing in the world."

Every parent, child, citizen should heed this call. But in our current economy, how do we protect our most precious resource-- our children?

It is devastating to think that young Americans may not be able to make it to college. Ask yourself, what will it take to make a real sacrifice? The plasma TVs, Blu Rays, DVDs, Wiis, iPods, and other gadgets you buy today are luxuries. New cars are sure nice to drive, but they lose their value quickly. Restaurants & movie theatres are expensive. What are you willing to give up? Having an education in today's world? That's not a luxury. It should not be a privilege for the few. It is a necessity to compete in this global market economy. Having a college education is a requirement by today's standards.

If Obama's words are true and we all must step up, make the commitments & the sacrifice, I urge you to start thinking about the sacrifice you will need to make to help put your children & grandchildren though college. It's an expense worthy of its high price. It doesn't matter if your child goes to Harvard, UIC, or community college. What matters is that they GO. They expand their perspectives, develop much needed critical thinking skills, fine-tune their abilities, research & create what must be made….. As a nation we will be desperately seeking highly-skilled workers. Barack Obama said "Our universities are still the envy of the world", so let's make sure our children get the opportunity, take advantage of the outstanding academics in this country, & make the most of their education.

I have always been passionate about working with young people & families. A former teacher of seven years, I remain vigilant about education, and I am proud to bring you the College Illinois! program. If you are like the millions of American families out there struggling to pay bills, this plan may be an ideal solution for you. It may not be right for every family, but it is one tool you can use to really be smart about your money and plan for the future. Year after year, parents and grandparents we speak to sing the praises of College Illinois!. It has literally changed their finances, their financial outlook, their lives.

Talk to us-- See how a College Illinois! plan can help you. Call toll-free (877) 877-3724.

Amy