Community Arts Substance Abuse Prevention Initiative: “You’re not Alone” - Thursday, July 26 - Written By: Alex Kais
On Thursday July 19th, 2007, Reem Zaia, Director of Communications and myself, Alex Kais, Director of Community Projects met with Mr. Kim Elliot at the Windsor Public Library to discuss a project between the two organizations of the Salvation Army, and The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee.

We discussed a need for education among youth about substance abuse and the consequences which can eventually lead to a life of addiction, homelessness, and violence. Mr. Elliot was approached and youth told their stories that shocked him. One particular man’s story caught his attention; his name was Quinn. Quinn teamed up with the people of Sudbury and produced a video about youth in regards to drug abuse. They used Quinn as a spokesperson.We decided to write a proposal together and I presented it to MYAC.

We want to do presentations in the highschools that educate youth. We also want to reach out into the elementary schools and do presentations from gr.6-8. We are hoping to team up with all the Boards of Education, and at the moment we are currently drawing up a budget plan to present back to MYAC.

What I am looking for is 8-10 committeed people who can help assist in the planning and launching of this project and continue with it. The theme of the project is " You're Not Alone" which sends out a universal meaning to all youth who are struggling with drug problems that we are here for them but we want to reach out to young youth and show them that this is not a path that they would want to venture on. Anyone who wants to assist will be guaranteed their 40 hours of community service, signed by myself.

There is a lot of work to be completed onnce we have made our presentations to the Boards. If you have any questions or concerns and want to get involved in this project you can contact me at: akais@youthwindsor.com

Thanks!

Alex Kais,
Director of Community Projects
akais@youthwindsor.com