Day One Youth Advocate Program

Day One trains high school and college students to be positive role models. Based on the social influence model, which has been determined by CSAP, NIDA, OJJDP, & US Department of Education as an effective prevention approach, youth are versed in basic alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) information - such as understanding the consequences of using ATOD, recognizing that most youth (despite the often widespread belief otherwise) don't use ATOD, resisting social pressures to use, supporting others in making non-use decisions, and determining alternatives. Youth are recruited from schools, youth groups, parks, recreation centers, parent-referrals, community organizations, and community events in and around the communities of Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre. The function of this program is: alcohol, tobacco and other drug prevention, promoting social justice issues, and granting youth a voice in an often times one-sided debate, therby empowering them as powerful catalysts for change within their respective social circles and communities.

What we Do

Youth Summit

• During Youth Month, the Youth Advocates plan and coordinate an annual youth summit offering teens training, education and outreach resources. The Youth Summit is a day filled with lively speakers, enjoyable and informative workshops and, of course, tons of fun!

Protests and Campaigns

• The Youth Advocates have developed peaceful, effective and socially-responsible ways of voicing their opinions of public figures. We have launched far reaching protests against such groups as the Image Awards, Target and various musicians who have glamorized alcohol and drugs in the past.
• The Cease Fire Campaign is an ongoing effort to address the influence of popular youth cultural influences (music,magazines, movies and music videos) on increased use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.

Presentations

• After going through a comprehensive training program, Youth Advocates are able to develop and perform presentations on the dangers of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. We travel to schools, community organizations, recreation centers and other locations to educate and inform our peers and adults.

Other activities include: Youth Month chaperoning, camping trips, information booths, conferences and much more!

What we can offer YOU

• Presentation Skills
• Methods to counter pressure to use drugs
• Substance abuse facts, stats, trends, short and long term effects and myths
• Media Literacy
• Practice sessions (peer presentations, role play)

BENEFITS include the OPPORTUNITY to

• Improve your Leadership Skills
• Earn additional Community Service Hours
• Help your community and peers become healthy and drug-free
• Attend conferences and meetings throughout California
• Represent youth concerns and issues
• Launch public service projects on issues you care about
  
• Secure future Letters of Recommendation
• Connect with students from local schools
  
• Make great new friends along the way!

For more information about the Youth Advocate program or if you would like to become a Youth Advocate, please contact us at (626) 229-9750