Barton County Youth Crew members are visiting local restaurants to raise money for an upcoming conference in Orlanda, Fl., and reaping benefits in more ways than one.
The restaurants are donating a portion of their sales during a certain time frame, while the young people are given the opportunity to educate the community about Youth Crew and its many local activities.
The businesses involved are Freddy’s, Gambino’s, Arby’s and Pizza Hut, which are helping with expenses for the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) conference scheduled for July 12-16
“But this isn’t all these restaurants are doing for Youth Crew,” said Tyler Morton, Juvenile Services prevention advocate. “They are giving us the opportunity to get out in front of the community during the fundraising campaign.
“Our young people are practicing their public speaking skills, while being attentive and responsive to others. People are asking about Youth Crew activities and accomplishments. We are thankful for these chances to share our message.”
Morton noted that since restaurants serve all ages, young customers might become interested in Youth Crew, and older generations may donate on their own and share the message with family and friends.
“This is the kind of collaboration we are always looking for,” Morton commented, noting grant funding for Youth Crew is tapering off.
Youth Crew has already been to Freddy’s and Gambino’s. They will be at Arby’s June 9 and Pizza Hut June 18.
Any business that wants to get involved in the fundraising effort is encouraged to call Morton, 620-793-1930 or 620-786-4033.
CADCA
The Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of American was established in 1992. It represents more than 7,000 community coalitions of people in the areas of education, law enforcement, healthcare and others.
It empowers members to advocate for the prevention of substance use and provides a platform for their voices to be heard at all levels of government.
“The CADCA conference is the best source of training for our youth,” Morton emphasized. “It offers professional trainers, while allowing attendees to be engaged. It also is the site for recognizing youth who excel in their efforts to enhance local prevention projects.
“We want our local youth to understand that we are always moving the needle and trying to get better in our community-wide work. Attending CADCA and engaging in continuing education are huge pieces of growing as a coalition.”
20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake & Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.
