YOUTH

Jessica Dresch (15)
I think drugs mess up your life—we need to think about our future.  I like teaching others about not doing drugs.  I thought it would be boring but it’s not.

Harli Queen (12)
I thought that we would just have to read—our facilitator makes it interesting.

PARENTS

Dolores Stell, grandmother of Brittany Temple, 13
I like this program because it has helped my granddaughter. She does her homework there and she has learned many things about drugs and alcohol.  I feel this program would help all kids. It keeps them off the streets and out of trouble. They have also done community service. They take things to the elderly in the apartments. I feel that this teaches them to care for others.

Janell Balter, parent
It has a good affect because she is always telling me she will never do drugs in her life.  It affects me really good too because just by hearing her talk makes me not want to do them.  It has made me feel different because as I was her age I always wanted to do drugs and that this will prevent her from doing them.

Kimberly McCullough, parent
My child has learned a great deal and has a lot of very good questions.  I am happy that we are talking about drugs and alcohol.  We have all learned more about and how to help and understand various addictions.

Karl Crawford, parent
The program has helped my son keep busy interacting with other kids.  I think he is a good influence on the other kids and keeping busy with positive things is good for him.  The facilitator is great!  She keeps me informed about what’s going on with the program and she does a good job working with the kids.

Diane Stowe, parent
It has made me more aware of the signs of drug use. I think it would be help families with the signs to look for in drug and alcohol use.

Teressa Queen, parent
My child has opened up more about drugs and alcohol with me.  This makes me feel more confident about her not doing or trying drugs or alcohol. I think this program should be offered to all 6, 7 and 8 graders.

FACILITATORS

Sherry Kimball, facilitator
Our program targets middle school age children and at that age they are very impressionable.  By giving this age child a place to go after school and providing drug and alcohol prevention programs, we may be saving their lives.  They get something to eat, helpful instruction on their homework, life skills, and learn how to say no to bad habits and bad people.  Self-respect and respect for others is emphasized.  It is important for them to know that we will be here and we care about what happens in their lives.

Colleen Crawford, facilitator
We have seen children who seemed bored with the world come alive!  We have seen acts of honesty, bravery, giving, and cooperation within the group from children whom you would never have expected in the beginning.  A few of our children really struggle with personal issues, but they continually try to work on these issues in order to remain part of our club.

Lena Washington, facilitator
I try to create a relaxing atmosphere with the students so they will feel comfortable in talking to me.  It is the best feeling to see a student improve academically and personally.

Betsy Baste, facilitator
We create an inclusive atmosphere where young people feel safe and loved. I see big changes in our young people, with increased self-confidence and tools to set and meet goals.