METH PROJECT TAKING CORRECT COURSE

The Olney Daily Mail's recent coverage of the Illinois Meth Project
shows that the Project has already been successful in changing teens'
attitudes about the dangers of methamphetamine. This prevention
program works because it focuses on reducing meth use through
advertising and community outreach. It is educating our youth about
just how dangerous and destructive meth is, not only to the user, but
also to families, friends and communities.

Meth is everyone's problem - substance abuse is present somewhere
close to you - your neighborhood, your workplace, your family.
Thankfully, the Illinois Meth Project recently expanded its media
campaign into Richland County this January.

Prevention programs, like the Illinois Meth Project, are critical in
targeting the root of this problem. Prevention works because you are
giving people the information and skills they need to make positive
and safe lifestyle choices. It's that simple.

While local law enforcement tell me the number of meth lab busts have
gone down, arrests for pre-cursors and possession have not. As a drug
prevention specialist with the PALS Task Force, I know that a
proactive approach like the Illinois Meth Project is the best method
of community education.

Bea Gardner, B.A.

Richland County Prevention Specialist

PALS Task Force Coalition, Inc.