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124 STAT. 4607 PROCLAMATION 8494—APR. 8, 2010 child’s education, steer clear of deceptive financial products and prac- tices, plan for retirement, and avoid accumulating excessive debts. To learn more, visit: MyMoney.gov or call toll-free 1–888 –MyMoney for helpful guidance and resources. Our Nation’s future prosperity depends on the financial security of all Americans. This month, let us each take time to improve our own fi- nancial knowledge and share that knowledge with our children. To- gether, we can prevent another crisis and rebuild our economy on a stronger, more balanced foundation. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Con- stitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 2010 as National Financial Literacy Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month with programs and activities to improve their understanding of financial principles and practices. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Inde- pendence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty- fourth. BARACK OBAMA Proclamation 8494 of April 8, 2010 National D.A .R.E. Day, 2010 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Every day, young Americans face pressures to engage in violent activi- ties, drug use, and other harmful behavior. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering our children to resist violence and sub- stance abuse. Drug dependence affects individuals from all backgrounds, and its de- bilitating effects often go unaddressed. Too many of our families are afflicted by addiction, and too many lives are ruined by its harmful im- pact. Drug abuse is not an isolated crime, and communities experience the tragic results when drug-related violence and gang activity reach our neighborhoods. It takes parents, guardians, educators, clergy, law enforcement officers, and other mentors to demonstrate that a healthy and drug-free lifestyle can build a strong foundation for future success. Families must be vigilant in recognizing and addressing the warning signs of drug and alcohol abuse. From prescriptions and over-the- counter medications to chemical inhalants, many substances can be harmful if abused, and preventing our children from doing so is vital. I urge friends and loved ones to be role-models and to discuss the con- sequences of drug use with the young people in their lives. Community-based prevention and treatment programs can provide young Americans with mentors and reinforce positive behavior. Through the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E .) program, law enforcement personnel contribute their expertise to help teach Amer-