Actor Denzel Washington has a few words for Americans hitting the voting booths this November. He is urging us to take into consideration the needs of our youth as we consider casting our ballots. He's also urging our leaders to take these matters into greater account.

Washington is a strong supporter of the Boys and girls Club of America, and has taken youth issues to heart. Says Washington, the nation's leaders need to focus on the needs of our youth, including the increases in obesity and the high school dropout rate. The Oscar winner also commented on the violent crime among young people, which increases in the hours right after school.

Washington made his opinion known via a commentary piece for CNN.com and feels that if we don't deal with these issues our children won't be prepared to deal with the "challenges posed by a complex world." Well said!