Drug Education For Youth (DEFY) Program
Drug Education For Youth (DEFY) Program is a 2-phased prevention program for kids ages 9-12. DEFY deters "at risk" behaviors by giving kids the tools they need to resist drugs and develop positive social skills. The leadership and life skills training provided by DEFY include: goal-setting, team building, conflict resolution, gang resistance and decision making.
The DEFY Program is a professionally developed curriculum that incorporates key characteristics of successful substance abuse prevention programs as identified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
"The Officers helped me understand why I should not use drugs." Devon Clark "The best part of DEFY was the fact our mentors and teachers actually took time out from their busy schedules to help us stay drug-free" D'mondria Fields |
Additional DEFY topics include:
- Resistance Skills
- Social behavior
- Self-esteem
- Alcohol attitudes
- Smoking attitudes
- Drug knowledge
- Internet Safety
Phase I is a structured 5-day non-residential camp. It is held at Florida A& M University's Army ROTC Facility. During phase I DEFY youth participate in classroom activities, physical fitness and educational field trips. Youth interact with adult mentors (sworn police officers with the Tallahassee Police Department).
Phase II is designed to reinforce the concepts and training received in Phase I. During the school year, mentors and staff provide positive support during group mentoring sessions, interactive workshops and field trips. DEFY also participates in activities that promote civic responsibility.
DEFY is a 10 month program, starting in July and ending in May the following year. There is no cost to participate. Youth must be residents of Tallahassee and between the ages of 9-12. Space is limited.
The camp dates for 2008 are: July 21-25, 2008.
Please download, complete and submit an application (PDF) to:
DEFY Program/Officer Danielle Davis
Tallahassee Police Department
234 East Seventh Avenue
Tallahassee, FL 32303
For more information please contact: Officer Danielle Davis at (850) 891-4326 or via email.