Pubdate: Fri, 26 May 2006 Source: Cayman Net News (Cayman Islands) Copyright: 2006 Cayman Net Ltd Contact: http://www.caymannetnews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3700 Author: Simon Miller Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Marijuana) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/coke.htm (Cocaine) CAREER OF THE WEEK Cook, bottle washer and everything else in between is how Simon Miller jokingly describes his job as a Senior Project Officer at the National Drug Council in Grand Cayman. However, the general duties include assisting the Chief Executive Officer in developing public awareness campaigns, public service announcements, drug education programmes for the schools and prison, and research. Mr Miller has been employed with the NDC since 2000 and works extensively with inmates at HMP Northward. "We're running a programme with inmates trying to let them identify some of the ill effects of drug use and abuse, trying to let them go through a process where they can choose a healthy and positive lifestyle instead of using drugs," he said. Mr Miller said that he presents facts and answers their questions and concerns, instead of preaching to them, saying they find the latter offensive. "These are people who have used drugs for a long period of time so when I tell them about a fact about marijuana or cocaine use they oftentime challenge me and I'm placed in that situation regularly," he said. Working for an organisation like this, which has a focus towards the betterment of the greater community, brings a great enjoyment day in and day out, knowing that you're part of it, he said. Anyone interested in this profession must have love for the community, put their heart and caring nature into it, he recommended. The National Drug Council also works with the Eagle House and the CAYS Foundation, and will soon be playing a more active part on the Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake