Randy Miller expecting big enrollment in Washington Drug-Free Youth
Drug-Free Youth member Ashley Orozco, of the Royal Schools chapter, prepares to enjoy her end-of-year banana split for being drug-free all year.
ROYAL CITY - Washington Drug-Free Youth, which was introduced in the Royal School District last year, will kick off its enrollment drive the first day of school, tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 26.
WDFY is a two-pronged attack on use of illegal drugs. Students are asked to pledge not to use, and merchants are asked to reward the students who make that pledge.
But students don't pledge only. They also voluntarily allow themselves to be randomly tested for drugs.
"WDFY is a non-profit organization dedicated to building safe and healthy communities," Director Randy Miller said.
In Royal City, WDFY is supported by Confluence Health Care and Grant County Hospital District No. 7 (Royal City).
Washington is the 22nd state to offer a Drug-Free Youth Program. There are currently 28 youth-led chapters in eastern Washington.
This is the second Miller has led. He had a successful program in Spokane.
Miller was pleased with the results of the first year at Royal. He had 180 enrollees. He expects to raise that number to 300 this year.
WDFY offers youths in grades 6-12 an incentive to become or remain drug-free through positive reinforcement. They participate in fun activities and receive discounts from local merchants.
"Businesses benefit from having drug free youth programs in the community," Miller said. "We are growing a drug free workforce."
According to Miller, WDFY members are drug-free and prove it by submitting to random drug tests throughout their membership. WDFY offers a chance for the community to become involved in the lives of youths and encourages program supporters and their families to attend WDFY activities, events, and community service projects.
WDFY receives its testing through generous donations from Grant County Hospital District (Royal City) and P.A.L.M. WDFY is also supported by a Department of Education grant as well as state and federal funding through eastern Washington.
While students are asked to make the pledge and allow themselves to have to prove it through random testing, the business community is asked to encourage them with incentives.
Merchants are asked to offer specific discounts to youths who enter their establishments and show their membership card. A merchant can also show blanket support by donating to the program.
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