Prevention program begun
By Patty Baker
According to the 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, an estimated 22.3 million Americans aged 12 or older needed a solution to their substance abuse or dependence.
Although Teen Challenge assisted thousands of students in overcoming their life-controlling problems in 2008 and countless others over 51 years of ministry, the number of buildings and staff can never meet the growing demand for help. In 2008, Teen Challenge USA strengthened its efforts by launching Stay Sharp, a drug prevention program designed to educate young people on substance abuse and the consequences of drug usage.
Stay Sharp is a dynamic prevention program Teen Challenge centers can share with their communities. The passion and purpose of Stay Sharp is to connect with the hearts and minds of young people by providing them with a relevant and compelling message that will challenge them to say no to experimenting with and using drugs and alcohol. Along with video presentations, teenagers hear personal stories from Teen Challenge students’ experiences with drugs. These speakers are young people who are able to make a relevant and impacting connection.
Loren, a ministry director, said, “One thing I would like to note is that the use of multimedia draws kids in. The combined effect of slick graphics, stunning statistics, followed by personal, gut-wrenching testimonies made the entire night a ‘stand up and pay attention’ kind of event. Our kids were deeply moved and one openly wept as he looked at his own life.”
After seeing the presentation, Shelby said, “Recently, my mom’s ex-boyfriend beat her and me up. My mom’s elbow is broken and I can’t see out of my left eye. He is in jail, but I am very afraid of him. Also, my father passed away three years ago, and it has been very hard. Your group tonight has given me a new perspective on life. I am now going to stop smoking pot, taking pills and drinking alcohol. I really needed this. No one in my entire life has been this much of an inspiration to me. All I can say is ‘thank you.’”
In 2008, Southwest Florida Teen Challenge’s Stay Sharp team presented the program in over 40 venues to more than 5,000 teens within the local public schools, youth groups, Boys & Girls Clubs, and juvenile detention centers. They saw 1,500 kids give their lives to the Lord.
Alton Garrison, AG assistant general superintendent, said, “Stay Sharp takes the battle to the front lines by challenging young people to consider the consequences and costs of drug and alcohol abuse. Stay Sharp is a life-changing outreach resource that will positively impact countless lives. It should be in every Teen Challenge center and church in America. I encourage you to be part of this powerful new outreach.”
For more information about Stay Sharp visit www.staysharp.us.