Drug Alliance

WASHINGTON (AP) Civic groups from across the nation pledged to
collaborate in the fight against drugs Tuesday, promising to serve 1 million
hours in volunteer time between them. Joined by the White House's drug
policy director, Barry McCaffrey, about 30 national organizations
representing more than 50 million people signed a civic alliance to work
together on youth drug prevention. McCaffrey emphasized the role of
community groups, "the heart and soul of America," in reaching out to
children.

"There couldn't be a more important commitment," McCaffrey said.

Groups ranging from the Girl Scouts to Rotary International promised their
efforts, capping a threeday conference on drug prevention strategies.
McCaffrey said drug prevention isn't just about teaching kids, but "is also
about giving kids a positive alternative."

Participants suggested creating leadership opportunities for youths,
providing adult mentors and holding youth summits as ways to spread the
message. Group leaders said the alliance reaffirmed the need for people to
fight together.

"People used to put their heads in the sand and think drugs were someone
else's problem," said Viola Bostic of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of
America program. "We need to have a wakeup call."