Pubdate: Thu, 21 Feb 2002 Source: Valley Voice, The (CN BC) Page: 12 Copyright: 2002 The Valley Voice Contact: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1388 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) DARE TO SAY NO Cst. Mike Wicentowich of the Nakusp RCMP detachment is finalizing the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program which will be presented to elementary school children. DARE developed in 1983 in Los Angeles, is designed to give children "the skills to recognize and resist social pressures to experiment with tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs." It helps kids build their self-esteem, manage stress and anger, forsee behavioural consequences, resist pro-drug media messages, and identify alternatives to drug use. The costs vary from school to school, but an average to cover the essentials is $10-$20 per student for the 17-week core curriculum. Each student gets a workbook and a T-shirt on "graduation", while the top student in each class is awarded a medallion and the top three essays also win prizes. Wicentowich talked about DARE to the Rotary Club recently, asking for financial help, and he welcomes donations from anyone who'd like to assist. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth