Generation for Change Springs Into 2010 Action for Jerry Brown

LOS ANGELES, May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Generation for Change and a star-studded panel of partners will host California AG Jerry Brown, special guest speakers and performers, and a max capacity crowd of young professionals at the premier Hollywood rooftop nightclub Drai's on May 17th. The event will raise awareness, excitement and resources for Brown in his campaign for California Governor. After an early endorsement and introductory event held by the L.A.-based young professional grassroots group last fall, Generation for Change is moving into its second phase of support for Jerry Brown.

"The campaign is reaching a critical juncture," says Bim Ayandele, Co-founder of G4C. "Now that we've had time to seed awareness of Jerry's profile among leaders in our demographic, it's the perfect moment for everyone to get fired up and go to work for Jerry in 2010." With the group's history, G4C's endorsement is translating into concerted action and inroads for Brown with a key California voting bloc.

During the '08 Presidential campaign, Generation Obama Los Angeles galvanized a movement of the young and young-at-heart across California, rallying thousands of new supporters and raising over one million dollars for Obama for America. The organization has since transformed into Generation for Change, putting the same spirit to work for common progress in public policy and across the political spectrum.

Jerry Brown, the Democrats' presumed nominee heading into the June primary, is glad to see G4C making use of hard won momentum. "In America and across California, young people and grassroots activism are central to building solutions in politics, in government, in our communities. The energy and ingenuity of Generation for Change will be vital to get California working again. I am proud to have their support, and I'm excited about the possibilities ahead."

With the deep pockets of GOP frontrunners drawing much of California's attention, the impact of a new generation of voters and activists has become something of an afterthought in coverage of this year's political races.

"We're still here. We know how decisive energy and turnout in our demo will be to this fall's elections, yet once again we are being overlooked by the media," noted G4C Communications Director Eli Dansky.

"The youth movement in progressive politics has had to defy expectations time and again," said Dansky. "We did in 2008 with Obama and we're going to do it again with Jerry Brown, and across the board in 2010."

G4C has been eager to begin its Spring efforts in support of Brown's 2010 run since releasing its official endorsement, prior to Brown's entry into the race:

"Generation for Change believes that we have a chance not just to help save the state, but to reclaim California's reputation as a national and global leader on everything from Education to Climate Change to New Economy jobs. The clearest path is to do all we can to make Jerry Brown the next Governor of California. With his steady hand, clear vision and perpetual optimism at the helm, California can and will be made great again."

The event is an opportunity for the influential young professionals, taste-makers and activists who established their demographic as a driving force in 2008 to reunite and familiarize themselves with Brown, who governed the state in the 1970's and early 80's.

"One thing was made clear over the past several elections across the country," said G4C Co-Chair Justyn Winner. "Strong turnout and engagement by younger voters can influence the outcome of elections." Brown, who has already held a non-fundraising event with the organization, "clearly understands the importance of mobilizing our demographic."

"Jerry Brown has a record of foresight on key issues, and his message is resonating with our peers," said one of Winner's co-chairs, Haroon "Boon" Saleem. "What's more, I think we recognize that there are two candidates running against Jerry who are basically trying to purchase the Governor's office. Part of the spirit of this movement from the beginning has been about making sure private fortunes don't override the public interest."

G4C and friends will introduce Brown to an expected max-capacity crowd at Drai's, one of the areas hottest new night spots, located atop the W Hotel in Hollywood. Keeping with G4C's successful 2008 model, the Brown campaign has set a low-dollar contribution level for general admission guests at $50, with VIP guest access topping out at $500.

"California's been so central to our national movement, and it's no accident that we'll be jumpstarting things here in L.A., and for Jerry Brown," according to Justyn Winner. "Jerry recognizes how crucial the future of this state is to young voters, and he's uniquely well-equipped to bring a better day for all Californians," said Winner. "That's why G4C is supporting Jerry Brown for Governor, and that's why so many of our friends and peers are joining forces once again to make it happen."

For additional information and to read the letter of endorsement please visit: GenerationForChange.org

SOURCE Generation for Change