Right now, approximately 763,000 kids don't have healthcare coverage -- a number that is going up each year. In fact, now 1 in 8 kids nationwide don't have healthcare coverage, many more than just last year. Despite the outcry from many Californians, the legislature just isn't getting the message that all kids need healthcare coverage.

It's time to let the kids speak for themselves -- And your kids can help.

Ever heard of YouTube? We promise, your kids have. Even the most simple, short videos can spread like wildfire on YouTube. We invite your kids to make a quick YouTube video about why they think all kids should have healthcare coverage. All it takes is a video camera or digital camera with video capability, a computer, and the internet. And, the video that gets the most views will win a prize!!!

Interested in getting your kids and teens involved? (And feel free to make one yourself as well.) Click here and we'll send you easy instructions so you or your budding filmmakers can get started.

We'll show these videos to legislators so they can witness the tremendous power of our kids and their common sense. Here's a video made by 15-year-olds Grace and Hannah -- who report it was a snap to make.

This is a great opportunity for kids to learn how they can make a difference using their own expertise. And it's a great summer project for all the kids racing around on your block, scouting troops, boys and girls clubs, summer camps, youth faith groups, and more. Be sure to spread the word to your friends, family, and neighbors.

If making a video sounds overwhelming, that's probably because you are over 18 years old. Kids now effortlessly make incredible videos and delight in the opportunity to show their parents all they know. These short videos (up to 3 minutes long) can be serious or funny, include personal stories, or not -- just about anything that moves your kids. Feel free to make it funny -- we're expecting some talking Legos, stuffed animal hospitals, and wacky animations.

PRIZES?! -- The first 10 kids (anyone under 18) to submit an entry to the video contest will receive two free movie passes. And the kid (under 18) whose video receives the most views on YouTube by September 1 will receive a $100 VISA gift card. Get the whole family involved -- it's fine for parents to help out (and submit) too! Submissions from adults are welcome, but prizes are reserved for kids.

Sign up here to get more info about the video contest.

Thanks and Happy Filming!

--- Julia, Ashley, Donna, Katie and the MomsRising.org Team

P.S. If you know of other kids who might want to participate, please forward this message to them. Also, if your tween or teenager would be interested in volunteering to get the word out about this video contest or if you have any questions about the video contest, please have them email us at julia@momsrising.org. We'd love their help and ideas!