Pubdate: Fri, 13 Feb 2009 Source: Olney Daily Mail (IL) Copyright: 2009, Olney Daily Mail Contact: http://www.olneydailymail.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3337 Author: Bea Gardner 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. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom