CHOICES mission is to encourage community involvement in helping island youth make responsible decisions about alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
The young people on Catalina island are not immune form the problems of underage drinking and drug use. In fact underage drug use is perceived by many island residents to be a major threat to our community's health, safety, and future.
The good news is that we can do something about it...and we are. A group of citizens has united to help Island youth make responsible choices about alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. We invite you to join us in this effort.
What is Choices?
CHOICES stands for Citizens Helping Our Island Children End Substance Abuse. We work in partnership with the Hazelden Foundation, an internationally renowned leader in alcohol and drug rehabilitation, education and recovery. Our Goals include:
- educating youth and families about the effects of alcohol and other drug use and abuse
- increasing the availability of substance abuse treatment and support group resources
- promoting sober teen activities
When Did CHOICES Get Started?
CHOICES began when concerned citizens recognized a high prevalence of alcohol and drug use among our youth. A community needs assessment in March 2002 involved interviews with students, parents, and community leaders. This study helped to identify concerns about tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use, including:
- the prevalence and accessibility of alcohol and other drugs
- the effects of use and abuse seen in the community
- youth and adult attitudes towards use
- supportive resources in the community
CHOICES Goals
- Young people will know how to find confidential help for personal problems, including tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs.
- More school and community resources will be available when young people experience problems with tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs, including: outpatient and inpatient treatment, individual and family counseling, and support groups.
- Fewer young people will start using tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs, and those who do will start using later.
- Young people who choose not to use will feel supported.
- Young people will perceive that their parents are concerned about their use.
- Young people will get a clear message that underage use of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs is risky and harmful, and that adults do not want them to use.
- Problems associated with alcohol and other drug use will decline, including: daily use, drinking to intoxication, use during school or school activities, engaging in risky activities after using, and criminal activity.
- Adults who live on the island will role model responsible use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs, or choose to be abstinent.
- Positive high school student leaders will be identified, recognized, and made visible so that younger students have healthy role models.
- Parents will know where to find information, resources, and support.
- Parents will take an active role in positive prevention efforts, including providing alternative activities for young people at high-risk times.
- Community organizations will be clear about their roles in prevention, intervention, and support, and will be actively working together.
- Young people and their families will have more activities available, and more young people will be engaged with positive adults through recreational activities and/or mentoring opportunities.
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