WORKING TOGETHER AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE

The Sunshine Coast has a substance abuse problem. This is not news. We
see evidence of it on our streets, in our families and in our schools.
And recently, we heard more about the problem and solutions through
articles in Coast Reporter with information gathered and provided by
the Sunshine Coast substance abuse strategy called Opened Doors.

What is news -- and perhaps historic -- is that First Nations and
non-First Nations peoples in our community are working together to
solve the problem.

"The difficulties caused by misuse of drugs and alcohol make no
distinctions as to race or culture," said Heather Gordon, co-ordinator
of the Task Force. "As the work on the Opened Doors substance abuse
strategic framework was completed, it was clear that the solutions we
need could perhaps be most effectively accomplished by working together."

This is a view shared by the Sechelt Nation Drug and Alcohol
Department.

The Sechelt Nation Health and Social Development, drug and alcohol
department and newly formed Opened Doors substance abuse task force
are co-sponsoring a public event that will build bridges between our
communities and provide opportunities to unite for learning and
working together. Addictions do not discriminate.

Building Bridges Between Communities is a free day-long event that
features speakers, personal stories and food provided by members of
Take Back Our Community.

Leanna Buffie, alcohol and drug school-based prevention supervisor
from the Sea to Sky Corridor, and Roger Lake, executive director of
the Washington State narcotics investigators association, will provide
education on crystal meth use prevention.

"It is a difficult habit to break. Once you get into the habit, it is
difficult," said Chief Stan Dixon. "You have to make the commitment
now because the future is yours. And if you don't, there is no future
and you become a burden to society."

All are welcome at the Sechelt Nation Longhouse on Friday, March 2,
between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. To participate, call 604-885-2720 or
604-885-9404 or email cscs@dccnet.com.

More information about the Opened Doors substance abuse strategy,
including the complete report, can be found at
www.sunshinecoastsubstanceabusestrategy.ca.