NCJ Number
213564
Date Published
2006
Length
179 pages
Annotation
This manual presents a complete program implementation guide for the Weed and Seed DEFY (Drug Education for Youth) Program.
Abstract
The DEFY Program is a comprehensive, multi-phased 1-year program that strives to strengthen protective factors and reduce risk factors linked to adolescent alcohol and drug abuse, school failure, delinquency, and violence. The program targets 9- to 12-year-old youths for its leadership and life skills training, which teaches team building, conflict resolution skills, age-appropriate goal setting, and self-confidence. The program has four components: (1) Phase I - Summer Camp Training; (2) Phase II - Mentoring; (3) Parent Engagement; and (4) Outplacement. Following a review of the organizational supports for DEFY, including partner responsibilities and the steps necessary to becoming a DEFY site, the guide turns to a description of the first two phases of DEFY: Summer Camp Training and Mentoring. The Summer Camp Training is designed to strengthen the protective factors that increase the chances youth will lead health, productive lifestyles. The Camp has three components: classroom instruction, physical fitness activities and physical challenges, and educational trips. The second phase of DEFY, Mentoring, incorporates cluster or group mentoring with workshops and special events in order to help youth find practical uses for the lessons they learned in the first phase of the program. The guide also discusses the local partners' program management responsibilities, program staff requirements, and other program resource requirements, which include facilities, transportation, food, and health services. The DEFY planning phase protocol is outlined, as are the implementation phase and the DEFY reporting requirements. An Awards and Recognition section reviews opportunities to appreciate staff, youth, partners, and volunteers while a section on program policies outlines the rules of conduct, disciplinary issues, and health and safety responsibilities for DEFY programs. A final chapter outlines the DEFY public affairs plan, which suggests appropriate activities for media coverage and tips for marketing DEFY to the media. Appendixes