A new strategy: Smart Choices program tries new approach to old problem

There are many people who worry about the future of American youths in their community.

Gangs, drugs, crime and teenage pregnancy are all factors as community leaders and residents try to figure out how to make a difference in the lives of troubled youths — and to keep others from following in their paths.

Unfortunately, in many cases, that involves more talking than actual action.

Not so in Wayne County.

Smart Choices for Youth is offering this community the chance to be part of a ground-floor project that will direct local children to something positive and away from the influences that can later lead them to lives of crime.

It will start with basketball, but eventually will include other activities designed to get youths off the street.

The problem is, this program will take money and volunteers.

Wayne County residents who want to do more than just complain about the direction of their community’s young people now have a chance to be involved in a positive effort to do something about it.

Volunteers who are willing to be part of the new program as coaches or as volunteers of any sort are needed to help get the project off the ground.

And really all it will take is the willingness to carve out a little time each week.

This is the first of several future initiatives designed to make a difference in the lives of Wayne County’s young people. The possible benefits will be immeasurable.

It is up to all of us to see just how far we can go.

Published in Editorials on June 25, 2007 12:03 PM