Without them, the program will lack the credibility it requires to succeed. Each time you talk with an expert, ask for referrals to other experts. In this way you can quickly perpetuate your contacts and expand your list of potential speakers and supporters. Even children in the lower primary grades are exposed to the drug scene, and education on the dangers of drug use can begin at a very early age. The Elks program is aimed at children in the elementary and junior high schools, especially in the fourth through ninth grades.
Youths are a discerning and sophisticated target audience.
They will quickly size up an information source and determine it either to be credible or not. The powerful influence parents have over youths is well documented. It is therefore essential that parents provide information about drugs that is consistent with and reinforces messages from the experts. Most often parents will be eager to get involved, if they aren't already, and will welcome any helpful information you can provide about drugs and youth. Simply stated, drug use precludes learning.