Dear Mr. President

To President Obama,

Our lives are made up of a series of moments - some good and others bad. Then, there are those that are truly remarkable. These are the defining moments in our lives that shape our perspectives and our personal histories.

Mr. President, there is no doubt that Nov. 4 was a defining moment. Not just for you, but for America and the world as well.

It was not that long ago when Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his now-famous, "I Have a Dream" speech. How far we have come. Certainly, the title of the first African-American president is distinct. This election made history and its magnitude cannot be discounted.

But, Mr. President, we have one request: Please, do not let this be your legacy.

As King said in 1963, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."

We believe this day has come.

As a candidate, you made repeated calls for change. Americans have put their faith in you. Now, it is time to follow through on those promises.

That, Mr. President, is where you will build your legacy - where your will find you defining moments.

Like those before you, you will have your own set of challenges. Certainly, the ongoing financial crisis will test your abilities as a leader. Franklin D. Roosevelt led America through some of the darkest times with his fireside chats. You too will need to offer the same support.

You will also inherit the Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. We know America and the world are anxious to see resolutions in these areas. This could be an ultimate test of your abilities.

But, while George W. Bush had his War on Terror and Ronald Reagan has his War on Drugs, we would like to see you take on a new kind of war - a War on Poverty.

We live in an increasingly connected world. Although the populations outside the United States had no vote, your actions will affect all of us. So, we ask you to make your mark on the world.

Right now, over three billion people live on less than $2.50 a day. Nearly a billion are unable to read a book or sign their name.

In your own country, the Children's Defense Fund estimates 13.3 million children live in poverty costing the nation trillions in lost productivity, poor health and an increased crime rate.

A War on Poverty will be no easy task. But, this is where we hope to see your character.

For too long, we have elected politicians whose own agendas have dominated policy decisions. You spoke of change. This is where we need it.

In 1961, John F. Kennedy announced his goal to put a man on the moon before the end of the decade. He would never see this come to reality. But, his commitment paved the way for the fulfillment of this extraordinary dream.

Your War on Poverty may not be won during your presidency. But, like Kennedy, we are hoping you will lay the foundation to make an investment in the long-term future of your nation and our global community.

Mr. President, it is clear that you are already breaking ground for minority groups in the United States. This is an incredible accomplishment and one for which you should be recognized.

But, you also have a chance to leave your mark in so many other ways. You asked America to vote for change. They did. Now please, be that change and more.