After identifying risk factors, the biggest issue for Meeker youth is an increase in the availability of alcohol and drugs, according to a representative of a local youth development group.

Dondi Glasscock of Build A Generation said this is true for every community because it impacts so many other social areas and Meeker is not an exception.

According to 2004-2006 strategic prevention plans, the purpose of the organization is to “become a single, coordinated planning body responsible for developing and recommending strategies that encourage long-term positive youth development.”

The board consists of more than 20 members representing numerous agencies, schools, and organizations.

Glasscock said there has been a huge impact across the state with recent budget cuts. In 1993, BAG was initiated at the state level. But in 2000, the state House of Representatives passed a bill and transferred the program to the state Department of Health with the intention of providing an umbrella for all preventative programs.

At that time, many BAG programs folded, Glasscock said. She said Meeker had not accessed the state money but instead used federal grant dollars. Presently the organization uses Title 5 money from the Department of Criminal Justice, which requires careful strategic planning.

“In Meeker, we’ve done a good job with the money we have available,” Glasscock said. “We’ve successfully sustained ourselves.”

She stressed key community leaders have been excellent about demanding accountability in spending money for programs.

“They foster an ebb and flow,” she said.

Glasscock said they have seen an increase in the number of youth in out-of-home placement and that this may be attributed to the drug methanphetimine. She said drug and alcohol usage has been seen as a rite of passage in the past but it is not the same anymore.

“It’s scary,” she said.

Two of the most successful programs BAG has introduced are Project Northland, an alcohol prevention program geared toward 6th, 7th, and 8th graders, and Reconnecting Youth, a prevention/intervention program designed for at-risk youth.

Both programs are top-notch programs, said Glasscock, with evidence of benefits.

In October, Red Ribbon Week will be held. This program, which began in the 1980s, is a campaign to deter the use of tobacco and alcohol. Planning for events this year already are in the works.

“We are working hard to impact all kids,” Glasscock said.

For more information about Build A Generation, please call 878-5344, Ext. 219.