AWARENESS AND ACTION PAVE THE WAY TO RECOVERY

As Recovery Month comes to an end, I hope we as a community can gather
the information we've learned and use it to move forward.

The work of the Drug Free Communities Coalition exposed us to what is
really going on in our community with regard to drug and alcohol abuse.

We've come to know 14-year-old, Angel Bacio, whose struggle with
alcohol and drug abuse brings tears to our eyes while empowering and
inspiring us to do more.

We must maintain the momentum that has developed.

This month we've also heard stories of young adults dying at
universities here in Colorado; both deaths are reported to be alcohol
related.

It's unsettling to see where abuse leads. It's even more unsettling to
know how young abuse can start. Most people on the Sept. 21 Drug Free
Communities Panel agreed that some youth begin to drink or experiment
with drugs at around ages 13 or 14, and sometimes even as young as
10.

And that's not information gathered from metropolitan environments;
that's what happens here in Summit County.

However, it appears as a community, we have chosen to believe such
things happen only in big cities.

When posed the question, "What treatment options are being offered in
Summit County?" the panel gave scattered responses. It was challenging
for anyone, even professionals on the panel, to directly answer the
question.

When the discussion turns to intervention and treatment targeted to
youth, finding an answer is increasingly difficult. Youth on the panel
said their peers were their treatment option here in the county.

Parents feel shunned in the county when their child becomes labeled as
an abuser, and turn to out-of-town and often out-of-state resources.

As stated by a panel member, "Awareness will bring about treatment."
We can no longer deny what's happening in our community. It was also
pointed out, "If the county started a treatment center, it would make
a statement." It may be time for Summit County to send a message that
we are not just "Colorado's Playground," but a community that cares
about and supports its youth in making decisions to lead to their success.

This month has made us aware; now it's time for action. I encourage
everyone to become involved with the Drug Free Communities Coalition.
The next meeting is Oct. 12 at the Summit County Community and Senior
Center near Frisco. Only through education and awareness can we
mobilize change in Summit County.