TEACHING MODERATION AND ENCOURAGING  SOCIAL ACTIVISM IN TODAY'S YOUTH

Sherman Oaks, CA-- For some Americans, Christmas could not have come at a worst time this year.  The financial markets are in a tailspin, daily more and more families are losing their homes, and instead of enjoying the holiday season, many prepare for bare cupboards and stockings stuffed with coal.

However, Judge Karen Mills-Francis, host of the syndicated court show Judge Karen, sees a tremendous opportunity to educate today’s youth on the true meaning of Christmas, while raising awareness of those living in foster care or families who benefit greatly from social service based programs.

“When the economy sneezes, the poor get a cold,” says Judge Karen, who is concerned about a decrease in philanthropic contributions as a result of the financial crisis. 

Judge Karen fears that as the economy squeezes families, the people who will suffer most are foster children and families who traditionally receive support from area food banks and outreach programs.  She suggests that parents use this year to teach moderation and social awareness to youth.

“Discuss buying one less toy with your child and how you would like to use that money to purchase a toy for someone living in foster care,” says Judge Karen. “My goal is to provide parents, who worry about our youth being overindulged or unappreciative, a tool to engage young people in community service.” 

An advocate for the disenfranchised and someone who has served as a foster mother, Judge Karen wants people to think about the “little things” they can do to improve the lives of others.

“Most women, and quite a few men, can do this, go look in your closet and find those things that still have the tags on them, or those shoes you purchased but have never worn and donate them to a local shelter,” said Judge Karen.  “Every little bit helps.”

Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Judge Karen was twice elected as Miami-Dade County Judge; only the second African American woman ever to serve in that position. When Judge Karen is not working, she supports many child advocacy programs, including the Whyspers Program for Girls, the GEMS Program for Girls, the 5000 Role Models Program, the Roving Leaders Program and the North Miami Athletic Program for boys.  She is a respected advocate for disadvantaged youth and victims of domestic violence.  In April 2008, Judge Karen accepted the opportunity to host her own nationally syndicated court series, Judge Karen (check local listings).