Drug-prevention program wins state award

The program targets inner-city youths in grades five through eight.
YOUNGSTOWN -- The Youngstown Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Program is one of seven programs statewide to be designated a 2005 Exemplary Prevention Program by the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services.
The success of the Youngstown minority outreach program's Willing to Achieve Success through Unity and Purpose, an after-school program housed at Martin Luther Lutheran Church, 420 Clearmont Drive, led to the award.
The after-school program operates from 2:30 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday serving children in grades five through eight, primarily from Sheridan Elementary and those who formerly attended Hillman Middle School.
Collaboration with other community organizations is key to the success of the after-school program, said Darryl G. Alexander Sr., outreach program executive director.
They include Youngstown Weed and Seed, a federal crime initiative located in Martin Luther Lutheran Church; Sheridan School, located next to the church; and Youngstown City Schools, which provide transportation for program participants.
How it helps kids
The award is given for providing evidence-based substance abuse and violence prevention programming that helps inner-city pupils avoid using alcohol and other drugs; reduce aggression, which leads to violence; and reduce behaviors that result in school suspensions, state officials said.
The after-school program offers one-on-one tutoring, help with homework, a computer lab, a nutritious hot dinner, snack, community service projects, and recreational activities, such as bowling, swimming, field trips, structured gym time, arts and crafts, role-playing and a summer day camp, Alexander said.
The Youngstown Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Program also provides prevention programming in numerous schools and other locations.
They include East Middle School, Athena Girls Academy, The Rayen School, Wilson High School, West Elementary, Cardinal Mooney High School, public housing facilities, Kirwin Homes, Rockford Village, New Bethel Baptist Church, D & amp;E Counseling Services and the Women's Center.
Funds
Funding for the after-school program is provided by the Raymond John Wean Foundation, the Mahoning County Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board, and the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services, Alexander said.
The programs' dedication and commitment to helping children and families make healthy choices are major reasons Ohio is regarded as a national leader in the delivery of quality, effective prevention programming, said Carolyn Givins, director of the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services.