Update note: The Senate approved the Specter-Harkin amendment on March 16, 73-27.

On Thursday, the Senate will vote on an amendment to increase funding for education and social service programs by $7 billion. The bipartisan amendment, led by Senators Arlen Specter (R-PA) and Tom Harkin (D-IA), could provide funding for after-school programs, mentoring, job training and a host of other important services for children, youth and families; failure to pass this amendment will likely result in cuts to many effective programs.

America's Promise says the amendment has a strong chance of passing, but needs additional support. If you call your Senator's office (Capitol switchboard is 202-224-3121), here's what you can say:

Hello. My name is _______ . I am calling to encourage the Senator to vote for the Specter-Harkin amendment. This amendment will provide critical funding to programs that serve children and youth throughout our state. Without this funding, many effective programs -- afterschool programs, mentoring, education and others-- could face harmful cuts. Young people in my community and my organization who need these programs would appreciate the Senator's support of this amendment. Thank you.