What is special about DEFY?
Unlike most programs, DEFY combines elements from many different youth programs, including physical fitness, mini “Upward Bound” type training, educational trips, self-esteem and peer leadership development, decision-making, drug resistance, and a formal graduation. We believe this intensive Phase I approach is the most effective way to initially influence positive attitudes in youth. More importantly, DEFY offers a year-long follow-up to Phase I which emphasizes small group mentoring/role modeling and special events and workshops which continue to build on the lessons of Phase I. DEFY is also unique in that it utilizes existing Navy, Marine Corps and community facilities and resources.
Is the program designed to compete with DARE? Who is the main point of contact in my area? … Do you accommodate special needs children? The Drug Education For Youth (DEFY) program was established in 1993 by the Navy s Drug Demand Reduction Task Force. Fully integrated with the President’s National Drug Control Strategy, and fully funded through the Office of the Secretary of Defense, DEFY has been the Navy’s cornerstone for drug demand reduction for the dependent youth and adult mentoring involvement. It provides drug education, conflict resolution, team building exercises, and leadership development to youth between the ages of 9 and 12. • California Drug Education Study Even younger children are far more sophisticated about drugs than most adults Combining all sources, the total spent on drug education in California http://www.monitor.net/monitor/12-3-95/drugstudy.html Extractions: California’s $1.6 billion program asking children to “just say no to drugs and alcohol” has failed be
