Josh Gracin performs for Laura Bush

Helping America's Youth (HAY) is a Presidential initiative, led by Mrs. Bush, to raise awareness about the challenges facing our youth, particularly boys, and to motivate caring adults to connect with youth in three key areas: family, school and community. The event will be hosted at Tennessee State University April 11-12, where community partners from 11 states participating.

As a father to three children, Gracin is a spokesperson for the National Guard Youth Challenge Program. He has been an active participant in the program through visiting programs, filming public service announcements and appearing at events. He is slated to release his second Lyric Streets record this year, although the disc has been much delayed.