Former Obama Adviser Named Keynote Speaker of Arlington Youth Gala

ARLINGTON, MA — A former senior adviser to President Barack Obama has been named as the keynote speaker for the 6th annual Out on the Town Gala.

David Axelrod, who served as a chief strategist and senior adviser to President Obama was named as the keynote speaker for the Arlington youth gala by the Arlington Youth Counseling Center and the Board of Youth Services. Axelrod is also a renowned CNN commentator, media strategist and best-selling author.

“We are very excited that David is able to attend this year’s AYCC Gala, just weeks after the election, which is sure to offer up lively opportunities for discussion,” said Joan Axelrod Lehrich, David’s sister and Chairperson of the Arlington Youth Services Board in a statement. “In addition to a love of politics and activism, David and I share a deep commitment to supporting mental health services for children and families. We recognize the importance of having such support readily available in the community.”

In front of hundreds of community members on Nov. 17, Axelrod will share insights, experience and perspective on the current political climate and the importance of mental health services on the national agenda. The gala aims to promote and support the work of AYCC, promote the value of community mental health and celebrate the year's accomplishments.

“The annual gala is always such a wonderful night for the entire Arlington community," said Christine Bongiorno, Director of Health and Human Services in Arlington in a statement. "Events like these allow us to come together and raise money to support the AYCC, which has become an invaluable resource to our community."

Image via the Town of Arlington