There's always a lot at stake with the ringing in of a new year. With challenges abound both at home and abroad, 2009 is no exception. President Obama's leadership is critical in making sure America weathers the storm and lives up to its promise. But he's not the only one who must be held accountable in this effort.

Thanksgiving Day may be over, but I still want to give thanks. Democracy needed your help, and you answered the call. Your commitment to progress is inspiring and necessary, and we will certainly need to keep up the hard work in the months and years to come to make sure America lives up to its promise. If what I saw on Election Day is any indication, we are well on our way to filling that promise.

Last night, volunteers in DC responded to my call that democracy still needs your help.  They gathered to do People For the American Way Foundation's part in a project that will touch hundreds of thousands nationwide.

In the past I've asked you to work for democracy.  With only a month left before November 4, that call to action is more important than ever.  You can still help!

Earlier this summer I joined Matt Popek in calling upon all of you to use the knowledge you gain in preparing yourself to vote to help others exercise that right.  Now is the time for you to put that call into action.

This year going back to school is about far more than returning to campus – it’s about changing history. For many a trip to the ballot box will be right around the corner, and some will cast their first ever vote for president. We want to be sure that the youth voice is heard. But it won’t be unless young people are prepared for the challenges they may face at the polls.