Pubdate: Fri, 21 May 2004
Source: Morning Star, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2004 The Morning Star
Contact:  http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1352
Author: Doug Rogers

ADDICTION AFFECTS EVERYONE

As a parent, you are well aware of the many challenges that youth face 
growing up in Canada today. Drug use affects everyone - communities, 
families and individuals - and instilling strong values is an effective 
protective factor for preventing many high-risk behaviors.

Despite the problems that drugs present, your leadership provides a source 
of hope for your child. Parents profoundly shape the choices teens make 
about drugs. Research shows that youths who discuss the danger of substance 
abuse with their parents are less likely to use drugs. In a 1999 Gallup 
Poll, more than half of teens said that parental support helps them deal 
with problems related to drugs and alcohol.

Partners in Prevention is a coalition of concerned individuals in Vernon 
who believe that education is one of the keys to resisting substance abuse. 
Special thanks to Glenn Mitchell of The Morning Star and Patrick Nicol of 
107.5 KISS FM for their commitment to this program. Finally, these Public 
Service Announcements were produced by the students of School District 22. 
Please take time to read this important message and then discuss the 
dangers of drug abuse with your child.

* Doug Rogers is the district drug and alcohol prevention counsellor with 
School District 22.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom