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Clinton Supporter: The Next Generation

Ryan Jeffries is gearing up for November 11. He’s picking out a nice suit, sending tons of invites to his friends, and preparing what to say to President Bill Clinton on the big night.

Ryan is going to the Chicago launch of the Millennium Network. He’s not only attending, he’s also on the host committee, and is committed to getting at least 20 people to the event.

Ryan is one of the newest members of the Millennium Network, joining more than 5,000 young philanthropists who support the work of the Clinton Foundation. Through events and online platforms, the network is growing rapidly, and this Friday, October 30, 2009, it will expand internationally with a London launch featuring remarks by President Clinton and a live performance by Joss Stone.

“I see it as an opportunity to give back, to get involved in whatever way possible,” Ryan, 27, says of the Millennium Network. “You see examples every day of why it’s important to engage the younger generation.”

Ryan’s relationship with the Clinton Foundation began when he interned in the Harlem office in early 2006. He was working toward his masters in international relations at NYU, and wanted hands-on experience with public policy. What impressed him most about the Clinton Foundation was how President Clinton was able to “leverage his network for the greater good,” Ryan says.

Ryan took President Clinton’s example to heart, and started his own foundation this year in his hometown of Chicago. The Jeffries Foundation is devoted to mentoring inner-city kids and granting scholarships to college-bound students. “The rewards are great,” he says, “but the biggest challenge is fundraising to support the operations.”

Ryan still finds time to do his job: running an independent film company. And he’s dedicated to spreading the word about the Clinton Foundation, enlisting his friends to celebrate the Chicago launch of the Millennium Network.

The first time Ryan met President Clinton, back in 2006, Clinton complimented him on his tie. On November 11, when they meet again, Ryan will have a few other things to show off.