It is the philosophy of the Network that students can play a uniquely effective role in encouraging their peers to consider, talk honestly about, and develop responsible attitudes and lifestyles regarding alcohol and related issues. Each affiliate group also has a delegate who works on legislation and pertinent Network issues. Students tackle deep-rooted problems, from impaired driving to dating violence, from alcohol abuse to marijuana use. Student peer educators in the Network are leaders, role models, and activists for healthier campuses and communities around the country. NIRA now funds this program, which has grown to a membership of 3,500 student athletes from 180 campuses.
Students also plan and implement events at the local level.
In addition, a survey of athletes at the 1997 CNFR showed that a change in their attitudes and alcohol usage has occurred over the four years that the program has been in place. These examples of student leadership illustrate a few of the ways in which students can become involved as leaders in AOD prevention. Students can also be valuable members of campus and community coalitions and can organize their peers to place prevention issues at the top of their schools' agenda. In many different roles, student leaders can be critical to planning and implementing effective AOD prevention strategies. Inc. Views expressed are those of the contractor.