Inaugural revelers who do not find their way to the parade route or get into the official balls will not lack for other options. Numerous organizations are hosting their own shindigs to mark the inauguration of Barack Obama, and the youth work field is no exception. Youth Today knows of three at the moment, and will update you with more if we find them:
The 2009 Children’s Inaugural Ball
Host: Every Child Matters
Day: Sunday, Jan. 18.
Time: noon to 5 p.m.
Location: Historical Society of Washington, 801 K St. NW, across from the Washington Convention Center.
Notes: “A unique event in collaboration with national and local children’s organizations that will incorporate entertainment, interactive and educational exhibits, food, crafts and games.” Organizations partnering to hold the event include Child Welfare League of America, Voices for America’s Children and the National Association of Social Workers.
Fee: Free. No more invitations requests being honored, but currently uninvited guests can place themselves on a wait list.
Info: www.everychildmatters.org/National/Campaigns/Children-s-Inaugural-Ball.html.
Special Inaugural Celebration
Host: Children’s PressLine and The Ralls Collection, a Washington art gallery.
Day: Sunday, Jan. 18.
Time: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: The Ralls Collection, 1516 31st St. NW.
Notes: Speech at 2:30 p.m. by guest of honor, Judy Woodruff, senior correspondent for PBS’ News Hour. Special presentation by Children’s PressLine youth at 4 p.m.
Fee: Suggested donation of $100.
Info: Sarah Kennedy: (202) 342-1754, rallswashington@aol.com.
Youth Inaugural Ball
Host: Presidential Inaugural Committee
Day: Tuesday, Jan. 20.
Time: TBA.
Location: Washington Hilton
Notes: This is not technically for the youth work field. But it is one of the 10 official balls hosted by President-elect Barack Obama, and only people between the ages of 18 and 35 may attend.
Fee: $75.
Info: www.pic2009.org
