ADDICTION AFFECTS EVERYONE

As a parent, you are well aware of the many challenges that youth face
growing up in Canada today. Drug use affects everyone - communities,
families and individuals - and instilling strong values is an effective
protective factor for preventing many high-risk behaviors.

Despite the problems that drugs present, your leadership provides a source
of hope for your child. Parents profoundly shape the choices teens make
about drugs. Research shows that youths who discuss the danger of substance
abuse with their parents are less likely to use drugs. In a 1999 Gallup
Poll, more than half of teens said that parental support helps them deal
with problems related to drugs and alcohol.

Partners in Prevention is a coalition of concerned individuals in Vernon
who believe that education is one of the keys to resisting substance abuse.
Special thanks to Glenn Mitchell of The Morning Star and Patrick Nicol of
107.5 KISS FM for their commitment to this program. Finally, these Public
Service Announcements were produced by the students of School District 22.
Please take time to read this important message and then discuss the
dangers of drug abuse with your child.

* Doug Rogers is the district drug and alcohol prevention counsellor with
School District 22.