Pubdate: Fri, 30 Oct 2015
Source: Tribune Express (CN ON)
Copyright: 2015 2015 La Compagnie d'edition Andre Paquette Inc
Contact:  http://www.editionap.ca/tribune-express
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5536
Author: Diane Hunter

REGISTER NOW FOR A DOSE OF REALITY

Every year, thousands of Canadians are deeply affected by the 
damaging effects of drugs. Many have died from drug related overdoses 
while others may contract HIV or hepatitis C from injection drug use. 
Many more are arrested for possession or trafficking, leaving them 
with a criminal record. Drugs have ended friendships, caused job loss 
and destroyed families.

A group of community volunteers recently helped to launch the Reality 
Tour for Vankleek Hill and Surrounding Communities. The Reality Tour 
is a consequence-driven drug awareness and prevention program for 
parents and their children, aged 10-17. The presentation includes 
guest speakers, videos and live re-enactments to show the effects and 
consequences of drugs.

Drugs are a problem in our area. A recent survey conducted by the 
Eastern Ontario Health Unit indicated that by Grade 12 over 51% of 
youth in our immediate area are using or have tried drugs. Marijuana 
is overwhelmingly the drug of choice but many students have also 
tried meth, ecstasy, cocaine, OxyContin, LSD and other drugs. The 
goal of the Reality Tour is to reach children before they decide to 
experiment with drugs by promoting the program to a younger audience.

November 14 will see the first event, held at Pleasant Corners Public 
School from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The cost to attend is $5 per person and 
all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The goal is 
to foster discussion between parents and children.

Spots can be reserved at National Bank, 38 Main Street East in 
Vankleek Hill, or at Theoret & Martel Insurance Brokers, 1 Main 
Street in Hawkesbury. Spaces are limited to 100 participants per 
event and participants must be pre-registered. Names will be added to 
a registration list for the February or April presentations if the 
November event becomes full.

This program hopes to arm parents with the tools that they need to 
have honest discussions with their children and prepare them for the 
questions that they may have.

More information is available at www.facebook.com/vkhrealitytour , or 
by calling Caroll Carkner at 613-678-2820 or email  ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom