DRUG PREVENTION PROGRAMS DO WORK

While I was accurately quoted by reporter Carla Crowder in last Sunday's
article on the DARE program, I feel I need to present some additional
information.

First, prevention works. There should be no battle between the drug courts
and the prevention field for funds. We are all part of the same cycle, and
those involved with the drug courts would agree it would be better to spend
resources on the front end to reduce the number of people who end up in the
justice system.

Second, we have made huge strides in identifying what works in preventing
substance abuse among youths. We know that teaching them skills to resolve
conflicts, deal with stress and make good decisions has a strong impact on
their ability to be healthy citizens. We know that healthy bonding with a
constructive adult is extremely important to young people.

Third, the approach to substance abuse in a given community should be
unique to that community. Sometimes, you must address the availability of
activities for youths. In some communities, you need to address access,
working with law enforcement to eliminate the sources of drugs and alcohol
in the community. Or, you may need to work with parents to educate them on
the dangers of allowing underage drinking in their home.

No one person or program is going to reduce the level of drug abuse in
Alabama. Only all of us working together will make the difference.
Assaulting one program that is trying to make a change is not helpful or
necessary.

Kristopher Vilamaa, Program manager for law enforcement and traffic safety

ADECA

Prattville