Substance Abuse Prevention...
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Drug and alcohol abuse has grown to alarming proportions worldwide. The problem is closely linked to crime, violence, poverty, child and spousal abuse, AIDS, homelessness and other ills in society.
Rotary International launched an anti-drug campaign in the early 1980s, urging clubs to assess the problem in their communities and identify resources to combat it. Concluding that preventive education is the best investment of Rotary efforts, RI focused attention on substance abuse prevention through forums, recognition of clubs and districts for outstanding projects, and highlighting them in THE ROTARIAN magazine and other RI publications.
In 1992 the RI board renewed its commitment to substance abuse prevention, making it a 10-year emphasis of the organization. RI encourages Rotary clubs to work with government and nongovernment agencies to:
•Increase awareness among members and the community about local programs dealing with substance abuse;
•Undertake or support substance abuse prevention programs that instill positive values and self-esteem in young people;
•Support local family-based substance abuse treatment programs.
How have clubs responded? Some have contributed financial support to drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation agencies. Others have created projects that educate communities, provide alternative activities to youth at risk of using drugs, and match young people with Rotarian mentors who help build their self-esteem. To help assure a healthy, hope-filled future, Rotary clubs must continue to aggressively confront substance abuse today.
Westport Sunrise Rotary
PO Box 43
Westport, CT 06881-0043
P: 203-454-6446
F: 866-235-5591
www.westportsunriserotary.com
District 7980
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