Lessons about that specific country are incorporated into the school curriculum. The program raises student awareness about global economic issues, the importance of preventing crises, the impact of poverty and disease on a society and what actually makes democracy work. Clearly, we need to redouble our efforts to build ties between America's youth and those in other countries. And that is why I am so proud to announce that with the help of the Royal Norwegian Embassy, the International Youth Foundation and the members of other organization represented here today, we intend to help make Operation Day's Work USA a major part of the American landscape. A number of practical concerns about how the program will actually operate have yet to be decided, but it is intended that many details will be determined at the local level with input from the national umbrella organization.
Local participation is essential in shaping the program to fit local needs and capabilities.
We will most likely seek private funds, not government funds, to match students' contributions. The ways in which students raise funds may vary as well. This effort will take a lot of hard work. Today, we probably have as many questions as answers as to how this will all evolve. But I am proud to say that we have a long list of people here today who are committed to working with us over the next year to make this happen.