Pubdate: Fri, 22 Dec 2006 Source: Journal-Pioneer, The (CN PI) Page: A3 Copyright: 2006 Journal-Pioneer Contact: http://www.journalpioneer.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2789 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) LEARNING TO RESIST DRUGS AND ALCOHOL RCMP Dare program visits schools ELLERSLIE - Thirty Grade 6 students have graduated from the RCMP's DARE Program. DARE is an acronym for Drug Abuse Resistance Education. The 10-session program is designed to equip elementary, intermediate and high school children with knowledge about drug abuse, and to provide them with skills for resisting peer pressure to experiment with alcohol, drugs and tobacco. The program introduces children to the DARE decision-making process to define, assess, respond and evaluate. "I enjoyed the activities," graduate Brandon Williams said. Daniel Gorrill said the program provided information about the consequences of abuse. "It's supposed to help you resist drugs and alcohol," he explained. Const. Janice Hebb coordinated the program on behalf of the East Prince RCMP. It is her second year of involvement with the program. Last year she conducted sessions at the elementary schools in Lennox Island and Miscouche. This year she gave the program at Ellerslie and Miscouche. This is the first time the program was offered at Ellerslie elementary. The Ellerslie Home and School provided the sponsorship and H&S secretary, Lisa MacDougall, suggested the organization would be interested in helping with sponsorship again. Program participants were treated to a pizza and cake and ice cream party prior to the graduation program. All the participants received a DARE T-shirt to keep. "I think the message has gotten through," Hebb said to parents of the Ellerslie school graduates. She said the lines of communication have been opened, encouraging parents to help reinforce the message. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake