Pubdate: Tue, 14 Feb 2006 Source: Crowsnest Pass Promoter (CN AB) Copyright: 2006 Crowsnest Pass Promoter Contact: http://www.crowsnestpasspromoter.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/840 Author: Amy Harris Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/dare.htm (D.A.R.E.) DARING TO SUPPORT DARE PROGRAM Crowsnest Pass Promoter -- This will be the fourth year the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program will be offered to the Grade 6 students of Isabelle Sellon and Livingstone School, but they aren't able to do it without the support of the community. Work books and educational materials are used to teach the students about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, peer pressure, and the importance of high self-esteem. The DARE program was started in Los Angeles in 1983 and is now being offered in 50 countries worldwide. It includes a 17-lesson curriculum and is a joint effort between the community, schools, students, parents, and police. The pamphlet for DARE states, "DARE seeks to provide children and youth with the information and skills to live drug and violence free. DARE works to establish positive relationships between law enforcement, children, teachers, parents, and other community members. RCMP Sgt. Brad Kaeding says the DARE program is valuable in communities because it focuses on the prevention of future substance abuse among youth. "(We deal with Grade 6 students) because that age group haven't yet been exposed to alcohol and drug temptation and they still like the cops coming around to talk to them," said Kaeding. "We try to get them equipped with the information and ability to make smart decisions." Kaeding says, so far, donations have come in ranging anywhere from $50 to $500, but they would be grateful for whatever residents or businesses are able to give. Donations for the DARE program can be dropped off at the Crowsnest Pass RCMP detachment at 2122-127 Street in Blairmore. They can also be dropped off at ATB Financial at 13219-20 Avenue in Blairmore by specifying the donations are for DARE. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom