Edwards DEFY partners with AFFTC Museum

  • Published
  • By Jon Fishman
  • Drug Demand Reduction
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  In an effort to provide community support and awareness, the Drug Education for Youth have partnered with the Air Force Flight Test Center Museum in hopes of drawing attention to and support for both organizations. 

On April 18, a group of youth with DEFY worked on pulling weeds around the aircraft and parking lot. 

This is part of DEFY's effort to help the Museum, which relies on donations and volunteers to support ongoing maintenance and restoration to keep the displays in top shape. 

"DEFY is a fully-funded program that relies on maximum participation from mentors and youth in an effort to help raise awareness about youth drug abuse prevention through community service and participation," said Carolyn Graves, DDR program manager. 

DEFY is intended to create positive experiences to help children choose healthy alternatives to substance abuse and gang involvement. The program stresses interpersonal relations and emphasizes leadership and teamwork. 

"Along the way, it raises awareness of the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs, as well as the dangerous effects of negative peer pressure to join gangs," Ms. Graves said. "The structured curriculum offers education, skills development and physical fitness." 

The DEFY program is now accepting applications for youth, ages 9 to 12 for this season. In Phase I, the 2009 non-residential summer camp will be held July 7 to 16. Once again, DEFY will be out during the summer camp in support of the Museum to help raise awareness and support for both programs. 

For more information on the DEFY program, call 275-3395.