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PROGRESS UPDATE.
NEW STATES ADOPT METH PROJECT
Following the Meth Project’s success in Montana, several states have adopted the program in an effort to reduce first-time Meth use. The Arizona Meth Project, which launched following Montana in April 2007, has shown significant progress and recently released its second Arizona Meth Use & Attitudes Survey, which measures changes in attitudes and behaviors toward methamphetamine. This year, the Meth Project expanded its programs, including the Idaho Meth Project in January; the Illinois Meth Project, targeting the Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign regions, in February; and the Wyoming Meth Project in June. Other states will be launching later this year.
THE DANIELS FUND INVESTS TO EXPAND THE METH PROJECT
The Daniels Fund provided generous support to assist in the development of the Wyoming Meth Project with a grant awarded in February 2008 and is now spearheading the effort to bring the project to Colorado. Operating the Daniels Fund Grants Program in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, the Daniels Fund was established in 1997 by Bill Daniels, a pioneer in cable television known for his kindness and generosity to those in need. The Daniels Fund partners with organizations that ensure youth and adults with alcohol and substance abuse challenges achieve stability by supporting prevention, treatment, and after-care
services. The research-based Meth prevention messaging campaign of the Meth Project is well aligned with the Daniels Fund’s effort to reach out, and work closely with, communities, organizations, and individuals to maximize impact. Linda Childears, President and CEO of the Daniels Fund, described their support for the Meth Project. “In our initial meeting with Tom Siebel, Founder and Chairman of the Meth Project, it was clear that our strategic focus and the Meth Project’s delivery of a large scale Meth prevention messaging campaign focused on teens were well aligned.”
SUMMER ’08
THE METH PROJECT
Progress Update Community Outreach and Federal Support New Meth Project Advertising Campaign 1 2 3 4 6 8 10
“As a parent of two kids, I wanted to tell you how much I appreciate the work you do.When we see an ad on TV, or the billboards, it opens an opportunity for a conversation about drugs. We’ve had a lot of them, sometimes in depth and sometimes just about the ad.” – Martha, Montana parent
ARIZONA METH PROJECT IDAHO METH PROJECT ILLINOIS METH PROJECT MONTANA METH PROJECT WYOMING METH PROJECT
The Meth Project is an initiative of the Siebel Foundation
PICKING FOR BUGS UNDER YOUR SKIN ISN’T NORMAL.
LEAVING A FRIEND FOR DEAD
MethProject.org
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© The Meth Project
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND FEDERAL SUPPORT
SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE HOSTS METH PROJECT
Leaders of the Meth Project states, including Idaho First Lady Lori Otter and Idaho Office of Drug Policy Director Debbie Field, met with their congressional delegations in March. In September, Meth Project Founder Tom Siebel was invited to testify before the Senate Finance Committee. Siebel was invited to brief the committee about the impact of the Meth Project’s prevention campaign in the state of Montana—where the Meth Project implemented its first statewide program. Committee members called on their colleagues to address the national Meth epidemic by expanding the Meth Project’s prevention campaign to other states across the country. Montana Senator Max Baucus, Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, applauded the Project’s success in his state, stating “the Meth Project has been extremely effective in raising awareness about the devastating impact of this drug. We have seen remarkable changes in Montana as a result of the Meth Project—fewer teens and adults are using the drug and Meth-related crime is down considerably. Other states will certainly benefit from the Meth Project’s prevention program, and I commend Mr. Siebel for his commitment to this issue. I call on my colleagues to make resources available to implement the Meth Project program nationally.” direct significant federal funding to support current and new Meth Project programs in states across the nation. In her testimonial, Otter outlined the damage that Meth causes in Idaho and the effectiveness of the program to fight the drug. “[The Meth Project’s] results in Montana have been more significant than any drug prevention program in history, and I believe we are on a path to see the same benefits in Idaho. On behalf of the citizens of Idaho, as well as the 38 state leaders who are reaching out to the Meth Project for an answer to devastating Meth abuse, I sincerely hope that Congress will respond to this challenge,” Otter said.
IDAHO FIRST LADY LORI OTTER TESTIFIES BEFORE CONGRESS
On April 2, Idaho First Lady Lori Otter testified before Congress, touting the success of the Project. Members of the House Appropriations Subcommittee of Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies affirmed the need to
ADVERTISING AWARDS: METH PROJECT EARNS INDUSTRY’S TOP HONORS
The Meth Project earned internationally recognized awards for its prevention advertising campaign in the past year, including the prestigious Bronze Lion Award at the 54th Annual Cannes International Advertising Festival in Cannes, France. Other notable honors to date include seven Gold ADDY awards, 18 Silver Addy Awards, two Gold Effie awards, and seven AdCritic.com “Top Ten” Awards for the best ads in the U.S. The campaign was also a finalist for the coveted Grand Effie award, alongside such notable brands as Apple, Philips Norelco, and American Express.
METH PROJECT DVD: NOW AVAILABLE
The Meth Project is pleased to announce the release of a new program overview DVD containing the Meth Project ads, interviews with state leaders, and remarks by Meth Project Founder Tom Siebel. The DVD also contains “Montana Meth,” a documentary film that takes an unflinching look at the debilitating impact of methamphetamine use. To obtain a copy of the DVD, please make a $50 donation at www.methproject.org.
IMPACT AFTER THE FIRST 2 YEARS OF THE METH PROJECT IN MONTANA:
• Montana now ranks #39 in the nation for Meth abuse, down from # 5 • Teen Meth use has declined by 45% • Adult Meth use has declined by 72% • Meth-related crime has decreased 62%
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METH PROJECT IN THE NEWS
The Meth Project has been featured in over 1,500 news stories and 300 million media impressions, including several news features and publications, in the past year. In August 2007, PBS NOW featured the Montana Meth Project in its “Enterprising Ideas” series, which highlights the world’s leading social entrepreneurs and how they are using business tools to tackle major social problems. The show focused on the Meth Project’s successful marketing techniques in “unselling” Meth to teens in Montana. The episode was well received, and PBS NOW followed up in May 2008 with a feature on the expansion of the Meth Project into Idaho, highlighting the successes of the program in the state. ABC News reported on the Meth Project in two of its news segments, ABC Nightline and ABC World News Tonight, which explored methamphetamine use in Montana and how the Meth Project has made an impact in reducing its prevalence in the state. The Meth Project was also featured as part of a CBS News (Silicon Valley) Special Report series, “The Meth Epidemic.” Numerous magazines have reported on the Meth Project, including the Stanford Social Innovation Review, Philanthropy Magazine, GOOD Magazine, and the Economist.
NEW UCLA “METH INSIDE OUT” DVD SHOWS IMPACT OF METH USE ON THE BRAIN
UCLA Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, a leading research institution on the topic of methamphetamine, and Eyes of the World Media Group jointly produced a video-based treatment curriculum on methamphetamine addiction and recovery, with support from the Meth Project. The series is designed to equip Meth users, their families, and the professionals who assist them with a solid understanding of the biological basis of addiction and effective tools for recovery. “Meth Inside Out: Brain and Behavior” equips viewers with an understanding of how Meth changes the brain and, consequently, behavior. 3D animations, accessible explanations, and personal accounts help viewers understand complex scientific concepts. To obtain a copy of the DVD, visit www.methinsideout.com
All press coverage can be found on the Meth Project’s website at www.methproject.org.
NEW METH PROJECT ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN: DIRECTED BY OSCAR-NOMINATED FILMMAKER ALEJANDRO GONZÁLEZ IÑÁRRITU
In April, the Meth Project unveiled its newest advertising campaign, including a series of television ads directed by critically acclaimed filmmaker Alejandro González Iñárritu, the Oscar-nominated director and producer whose works include “Babel,” “21 Grams,” and “Amores Perros.” The ads, which launched in Montana, are designed to communicate the consequences of Meth use on individuals, their friends, and families. The 30-second television ads offer a look into the dark world of teen Meth addiction. Built around the theme, “This isn’t normal, but on Meth it is,” the ads present graphic and often uncomfortable views of how Meth can drive users to abhorrent and even violent behavior. In one ad, two teenage girls sell themselves to a group of young men for money to buy Meth. Another focuses on addicts breaking into a house to support their Meth habit, and the last features a teen suffering from an overdose, lying at the feet of friends who are smoking Meth. In addition to the three television ads directed by Iñárritu, 4 print ads and 9 radio ads will reach at least 80% of Montana teens three times each week. The new advertising campaign is the fourth in an award-winning series launched by the Meth Project. To assure maximum impact, each campaign is research-based and is carefully tested with the Project’s target audience—teens. The ads can be viewed at www.methproject. org/ads, and will be aired in other states, including Arizona, Idaho, Illinois, and Wyoming at a later date.
Oscar-nominated director Alejandro González Iñárritu directed the new Meth Project TV ads. Visit www.methproject.org/ads
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94% OF ARIZONA TEENS NOW SEE GREAT RISK IN TRYING METH
A new statewide survey has found that teens’ attitudes toward the dangers of methamphetamine use have shifted substantially since the Arizona Meth Project initiated the first wave of its Meth prevention campaign in 2007. Compared to the 2007 benchmark survey—conducted prior to the launch of the Project’s “Not Even Once” campaign—the new results show that teens are now much more aware of the negative consequences associated with Meth use. The survey also revealed that, for the first time, teens view Meth as the most dangerous substance, even riskier than heroin, cocaine, and marijuana. The 2008 survey shows teens are more acutely aware of the specific dangers of first-time Meth use. Increases in perceptions of “great” risk in trying Meth “once or twice” were reported in nearly all risk areas measured, including: getting hooked (94 percent, up 5 points), becoming someone you don’t want to be (89 percent, up 8 points), dying (83 percent, up 8 points), and becoming violent (81 percent, up 7 points). Teens are also now more likely to disagree with certain benefits of Meth. Changes were seen as teens more readily reject the notion that the drug makes you happier (67 percent), gives you increased energy (69 percent), and helps you lose weight (49 percent). “This data demonstrates the Arizona Meth Project is making progress in changing teens’ attitudes toward Meth,” said Dr. Judy Krysik, associate professor in the ASU College of Public Programs School of Social Work. “Teens report the Project’s ads are not only impactful and informative, but make them less likely to try Meth. Teens now see the drug carries greater risk and less benefit than previously thought.” The majority of teens “strongly agree” the Arizona Meth Project’s ads show that Meth is dangerous to try just once (80 percent), will make you act in a way you would not want to (84 percent), is more dangerous than they had originally thought (78 percent), and affects many people’s lives besides the user’s (74 percent). Teens “strongly agree” that the ads make them less likely to try or use Meth (76 percent), help them understand that you can’t try Meth even once (78 percent), and make them more aware of the risks of using Meth (74 percent). The 2008 Arizona Meth Use & Attitudes Survey is the largest Meth-related attitudinal tracking study in the state. The survey group consists of over 1,212 respondents among three key groups: teens, young adults, and parents of teens. For the complete report, please visit www.arizonamethproject.org.
ARIZONA METH PROJECT UNVEILS NEW ADVERTISING AND ANTI-METH YOUTH PLEDGE
Arizona’s “Not Even Once” Youth Pledge was revealed last September, to mark the kickoff of Wave Two of the Arizona Meth Project mass media youth prevention and education campaign featuring hard-hitting television, outdoor, and print advertising designed to prevent first-time Meth use. The kick-off in Maricopa County was hosted at the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix by Arizona Meth Project Advisory Board co-chairs Attorney General Terry Goddard, Maricopa County Supervisor Don Stapley, and Navajo Nation First Lady Vikki Shirley. The cochairs were joined by Arizona Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs Board President John Heitel, a member of the Arizona Meth Project Advisory Board. Commenting on the Project, Stapley shared, “from the moment we launched the Pledge, our coalition partners across the state were anxious to carry this manifestation of the Not Even Once message into their community so that the conversation about this horrific drug could take place at a very grassroots level. Their enthusiasm, combined with the massive response from young people—expressed through their personal signatures and comments— reaffirms to me that the Arizona Meth Project is a much-needed effort and that we have only begun to scratch the surface.” (Continued on page 5)
“Not Even Once” Youth Pledge and kick-off of Wave Two of the Arizona Meth Project advertising campaign at the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix
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METH PROJECT POSTER CONTEST: ARIZONA TEENS SHOWCASE CREATIVITY AND TALENT
To make young people aware of the dangers of methamphetamine, Attorney General Terry Goddard and the Arizona Meth Project partnered in the Meth Not Even Once Poster Contest. Goddard encouraged eighth graders throughout Arizona to showcase their creativity and artistic talent, while learning more about the devastating effects of Meth use, by participating in the contest. According to Andrea Esquer, press secretary with the Attorney General’s Office, the office received 240 entries from 40 schools across Arizona. The criteria for the posters required that the artwork be original and that it exemplified the Not Even Once message. Judges looked for posters that best expressed the dangers of methamphetamine and that would appeal to a broad range of youth, Esquer explained. The Arizona Dental Association and Wells Fargo presented the winning students with cash prizes of $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place. An additional 14 honorable mention winners received $25 awards.
Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard awards the winners of the Not Even Once Poster Contest
The winner, Laurel Catanzariti, an eighth grader at Heritage Middle school, will have her artwork featured as a full sized poster in a statewide public information campaign.
NOT EVEN ONCE PLEDGE
CONTINUED
The Not Even Once Youth Pledge was a collaborative statewide grass roots effort that successfully captured personal commentary, etchings, and signatures from young people across Arizona. The Pledge collected more than 10,000 signatures from Arizona teens and young adults. County health departments, anti-Meth coalitions, tribal councils, and other community groups partnered with the Arizona Meth Project to bring the Not Even Once Youth Pledge to events in their communities, including music festivals, 4th of July parades, Boys & Girls Clubs, and popular water parks. Nearly 100 signed Pledges were returned to the Arizona Meth Project and, connected end-to-end, are longer than an NFL regulation football field. A list of all of the participating organizations, as well as some images of the Pledge in the community, can be seen at www.arizonamethproject.org.
Winning entries of the Meth Not Even Once Poster Contest featured in an Arizona Meth Project Poster
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NEW LAUNCH: GOVERNOR OTTER KICKS OFF IDAHO METH PROJECT
On January 7, 2008, Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter announced the launch of the Idaho Meth Project’s statewide prevention campaign aimed at significantly reducing first-time methamphetamine use. During his State of the State address, the Governor also requested the state legislature to appropriate $1 million in tobacco settlement money from the Millennium Fund to join the private, corporate, and public partners that support the Project. The Idaho Meth Project has adopted the Meth Project’s innovative program— combining an aggressive, saturation-level media campaign with community-action programs—designed to prevent Meth use by raising awareness of the dangers of the drug. In announcing the program’s launch, Governor Otter cited the severe impact methamphetamine use has had in Idaho, and the success the Meth Project model has had in reducing Meth use in other states. “The Idaho Meth Project was brought to our state by Idahoans who saw the tremendous burden Meth use has put on our social service, law enforcement, and prison systems,” Governor Otter said. “This year, the First Lady and I have visited with hundreds of citizens in the state that want to be a part of the solution. The result truly is a collaborative effort. People across the state have donated their time, talents, and financial resources. Thanks to their efforts, we can implement the Meth Project model in Idaho and dramatically reduce Meth use in our state.” In January, the Idaho Meth Project began airing hard-hitting television, radio, billboard, and print ads across the state. This research-based, high-impact advertising graphically portrays the ravages of Meth use and is designed to reach 70 to 90% of teens statewide, 3 to 5 times a week. The ads can be viewed at www.idahomethproject.org.
IDAHO METH PROJECT RELEASES NEW METH SURVEY
At the end of January, the Idaho Meth Project released the results of a first-ever statewide survey examining the attitudes and behaviors that Idaho teens, young adults, and parents have toward methamphetamine. The survey, conducted among representative groups across the state, found that 45% of young adults report Meth is readily available and 30% report having been offered the drug. Particularly disturbing is the fact that many young people perceive significant benefits in using Meth—and little risk. The Idaho survey indicated that nearly one quarter of teens believe the drug will make them happy and help them lose weight; 20% of teens see little to no risk in trying the drug. Four in ten young people have not tried to dissuade friends from taking Meth, and nearly one in four believe their friends would not give them a hard time for using the drug, suggesting a pronounced level of social approval. Survey results showed that half of young adults and one in three teens have never discussed Meth with their parents, although behavioral research has found that parent-child communication is one of the best prevention methods for reducing risky behavior. “All evidence suggests that education and communication are critical in preventing Meth use,” said Megan Ronk, Executive Director of the Idaho Meth Project. “The goal of the Idaho Meth Project advertising is to ‘unsell’ Meth, arming youth with the facts about methamphetamine so they can make better informed consumption decisions.” The 2007 Idaho Meth Use & Attitudes Survey will serve as a benchmark to measure progress as the Idaho Meth Project executes the Meth Project’s large-scale prevention campaign to educate the state’s youth about the dangers of methamphetamine use.
Idaho Meth Project launch in January, 2008.
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COMMUNITY SUPPORT: IDAHOANS RALLY FOR THE IDAHO METH PROJECT
THUNDER OVER NAMPA
The Thunder Over Nampa Air Show partnered with the Idaho Meth Project to bring an air show to Nampa, Idaho over Father’s Day weekend, with all proceeds benefiting the Idaho Meth Project. The event drew crowds of up to 18,000 over the weekend and, to benefit the Idaho Meth Project as much as possible, all of the performers at the air show thrilled spectators free of charge. Idaho Meth Project Executive Director Megan Ronk said that, from all perspectives, the show was a great success. With an estimated yearly budget of around $2.4 million, the project needs funding to keep promoting its slogan, “Not Even Once,” through an aggressive advertising and community action campaign. “This is not a problem we’re going to solve overnight,” Ronk said. “We really have to look at the next generation of Idahoans and inform them about this horrible drug.” “All the pilots donated their time and their expertise and all the people who are here—are here on their own time,” said John-Curtiss Paul, a pilot in the air show. Organizers with the Idaho Meth Project were blown away by the support they received from the flying community and the crowds. The event raised $45,000 to help fund the Idaho Meth Project’s anti-Meth campaign.
BLAKEFEST
With the help of a friend, Blake Shropshire organized 11 bands to play in his own backyard in Idaho Falls to raise awareness and money for the Idaho Meth Project. Blake knows first-hand the devastating effects Meth can have on a person. “I’ve had 15 years experience with Meth, and it wasn’t good,” Blake says. “I’ve ruined many lives and many families. I ruined my own family for a long time.” The event was open to all ages and drew a crowd of 550 young people. Blakefest raised $3,000 to benefit the Idaho Meth Project’s anti-Meth prevention campaign and the organizers are planning the next festival in Twin Falls.
IDAHO METH PROJECT RECEIVES FINANCIAL SUPPORT
COEUR D’ALENE TRIBE
The Coeur d’Alene Tribe has pledged $500,000 to support the Idaho Meth Project. This pledge represents the single largest contribution to the Idaho Meth Project to date. “We recognize the impact that methamphetamine has on our state—and Native American tribes have not been immune from the devastating effects of this incredibly addictive drug,” said Coeur d’Alene Chairman Chief J. Allan. “As a result, it only made sense for us to partner with the state and private sector in a coordinated prevention and public awareness initiative to protect our young people from this drug.” Senator Michael Jorgensen, Chairman of the Idaho Council on Indian Affairs and the North Idaho Fundraising Chair for the Idaho Meth Project, was instrumental in working with the tribe on this major contribution. “I have no doubt that this program will have a significant impact on reducing Meth use in our state. The generous contribution from the Coeur d’Alene Tribe gets us one step closer,” said Jorgenson.
QWEST DIRECT AWARDS
The Idaho Meth Project is a member of the Qwest Direct Awards Program. Each subscription to a Qwest service allows Idahoans to direct their award dollars to the Idaho Meth Project. Idaho residents can support the Idaho Meth Project by having Qwest donate an additional $25 for every residential service ordered. Qwest offers local and long-distance voice service, highspeed Internet, wireless phone service, and television in much of Idaho.
Blakefest and Thunder Over Nampa—community organized events to support the Idaho Meth Project
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ILLINOIS METH PROJECT: LAUNCHES IN SPRINGFIELD, DECATUR, AND CHAMPAIGN
The Illinois Meth Project launched a campaign to prevent first-time methamphetamine use in the state on February 11, 2008. The campaign began in the central Illinois media market covering the cities of Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign. It is expected to expand to other media markets in the coming months. “In the past several years, we have taken steps to curb the soaring number of Meth labs in Illinois, but this fight is far from over,” said Attorney General Lisa Madigan, addressing the crowd of attendees at the campaign’s official launch announcement in Springfield. “We also need to focus on prevention to curb demand. The Meth Project has delivered measurable results unlike any other prevention program I have seen, and I am excited to help introduce Illinois to this groundbreaking campaign.” Illinois Meth Project advertising will reach roughly 70 to 90 percent of teens 3 to 5 times per week in the Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign area, which includes the state’s capital city, Springfield. “We want to dramatically reduce Meth use and significantly increase the dialogue in the state,” said Meth Project founder Tom Siebel. “As an Illinois native, this project holds a special meaning for me. I am honored to be working with so many dedicated law enforcement officers, treatment experts, elected officials, and other state leaders who have taken a stand against Meth.”
POLICY ADVISOR TO ATTORNEY GENERAL NAMED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ILLINOIS METH PROJECT
Steve Mange, a respected advocate in the fight against methamphetamine, is now Executive Director of the Illinois Meth Project. Prior to joining the Project, Mange served as Senior Policy Advisor to Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, where he devoted most of his time to addressing the state’s ongoing Meth issues. Mange brings years of policy and community relations experience to his new position, including considerable work helping build local coalitions and statewide alliances to support stronger anti-Meth policies. “The Illinois Meth Project is pleased to have an Executive Director who is an expert in this issue at the local, state, and national levels,” said Michael Reagan, the Project’s Chairman. “Steve will be instrumental in working with government agencies and community groups, and expanding this innovative program to other parts of the state where Meth is a devastating reality.” In his new role, Mange will work with existing anti-Meth coalitions and communities to help prevent first-time Meth use, especially among young people. These efforts will focus on outreach among schools, since studies show youth and teens are particularly vulnerable to trying the drug. Mange will also spearhead efforts to expand the Illinois Meth Project into state media markets beyond the Springfield, Champaign, and Decatur region, where the Project is currently focused.
The Illinois Meth Project ad campaign reaches 70-90% of the state’s teens, 3-5 times a week
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SURVEY RESULTS: METH IS READILY AVAILABLE TO ILLINOIS TEENS, MANY SEE BENEFITS AND LITTLE RISK
The Illinois Meth Project released results of its Meth Use & Attitudes Survey for the central Illinois region corresponding to the Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign media market. The in-depth survey examining Illinois teens’ attitudes and behaviors toward methamphetamine shows that many Illinois young people consider Meth an easily accessible, low-risk drug that offers a myriad of benefits. Nearly one in four teens (22%) reported the drug is readily available and 26% see little risk in giving it a try. The survey also suggests that central Illinois teens perceive significant benefits in using Meth—21% cite weight loss as a key benefit, 16% believe it will make them happy, and one in 10 teens (12%) say Meth will help them deal with boredom. Not only do some teens see benefit in using Meth, but the data further indicates a relatively low level of social disapproval—49% of teens have not tried to dissuade friends from taking Meth, and nearly one in three (30%) believe their friends would not give them a hard time for using the drug. “Sadly, adolescents often have little or no factual information about the risks involved with illicit drug use, and make decisions based on incorrect assumptions and perceptions,” said Wendy Bailie, Director of Substance Abuse Services at FranklinWilliamson Human Services, which treats patients with addiction problems, including methamphetamine, at its centers in southern Illinois. “These results clearly show the gross misconceptions teens have regarding methamphetamine use. Many just don’t realize the destruction that comes with trying Meth.” Teens are particularly vulnerable to experimentation with Meth—in Illinois, 72% of people in treatment for methamphetamine began using at age 17 or younger. While behavioral research shows parent-child communication to be a powerful tool in discouraging risky behavior, survey results showed that 50% of teens have never discussed Meth with their parents.
SENATOR DURBIN SECURES FUNDING TO SUPPORT THE ILLINOIS METH PROJECT
In response to the ongoing Meth epidemic in Illinois—particularly in the state’s rural areas—the Illinois Sherriff’s Association led the initial effort to bring the Meth Project to the state. In partnership with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, the Association wanted to implement a large-scale prevention campaign to educate young people about the dangers of Meth. According to the Department of Justice, methamphetamine is the primary drug threat in central and southern Illinois and the University of Illinois estimates that methamphetamine costs the state approximately $2 billion per year. Senator Durbin and the Association have been instrumental in securing federal funding to both launch and sustain the Illinois Meth Project. The Senator has long been at the forefront in the fight against Meth use both in Illinois and nationally, co-sponsoring key legislation including the Combat Meth Act and Senate Resolution 366 with Senator Max Baucus of Montana, declaring November as National Meth Awareness Month. The work of the Illinois Sherriff’s Association and Senator Durbin in support of the Illinois Meth Project is driving visible and meaningful change in Illinois.
Illinois Meth Project Launch in February, 2008
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IMPACT: NEW MONTANA ATTORNEY GENERAL’S REPORT AND RECENT SURVEYS SHOW SIGNIFICANT DECLINES IN USE AND METH-RELATED CRIME
The Centers for Disease Control and the Montana Office of Public Instruction announced the results of Montana’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which found that Meth use among teens in the state has declined 45% since 2005, when the Meth Project first launched its campaign in Montana. In contrast, the report showed a 29% decrease in Meth use among teens nationally over the same period. In April, the Montana Attorney General’s office issued its second Meth study, “Methamphetamine in Montana: A Follow-Up Report on Trends and Progress.” The report showed substantial reductions in Meth usage and the secondary effects of Meth on social services and law enforcement. Among the findings in the report were a 62% drop in Meth-related crime since 2005, and a near 42% decline in Meth-related admissions to state-funded treatment facilities among young people. The report also cited an 11% decrease in children placed in out of home custody due to Meth-related neglect or abuse. In the report, Attorney General McGrath cites the work of the Montana Meth Project as a key factor in the state’s progress against Meth and called for increased support for the Project, noting that “continuing to execute aggressive prevention and education programs is critical to our efforts to eradicate Montana’s methamphetamine problem. By systematically focusing on demand reduction, we will continue to set the pace for the rest of the nation in addressing this epidemic.”
THE MONTANA METH PROJECT WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT:
American Bank Gilhousen Family Foundation First Interstate Bank BNSF Foundation Martel Construction Montana Contractors’ Association Glacier Bancorp Ila B. Dousman Fund Montana Tavern Association Town Pump Charitable Foundation Lee Enterprises Davidson Companies Fast Enterprises LLC Swank Enterprises LP & Theresa Anderson Foundation Locati Architects Rio Tinto Energy America Stuart & Sally Platinum Properties Oftedal Construction Stockman Bank MDU Resources Foundation Stillwater Mining Company Greater Gallatin United Way Sime Construction Vann’s Audio, Video & Appliances Kenyon-Noble Lumber Company Anderson Masonry Soroptimist International of Helena Mountain West Bank Bernard Construction Printing for Less James Talcott Construction Western Municipal Construction
PICKING FOR BUGS UNDER YOUR SKIN ISN’T NORMAL.
MethProject.org
LEAVING A FRIEND FOR DEAD ISN’T NORMAL.
© The Meth Project
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© The Meth Project
The Montana Meth Project is currently airing Wave Four of the award-winning ad campaign, featuring TV, radio, and print ads
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MONTANA METH PROJECT’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
The Montana Meth Project ended 2007 with a highly successful annual fundraising campaign, raising nearly $1,250,000 in private and corporate donations toward its 2007 goal of $1 million in private contributions. The Project relies on public and private donations raised through its annual fundraising campaign to sustain its statewide prevention efforts. This year’s fundraising campaign kicked-off with a special benefit dinner, ski event, and auction at the Yellowstone Club near Big Sky. The event raised over $40,000 toward the Montana Meth Project’s 2008 fundraising efforts. This summer, Burlington Northern Santa Fe Foundation, a long-time supporter of the Project, is hosting a benefit dinner for the Montana Meth Project on their Glacier View dining car. A gourmet dinner will be served as the train travels through Glacier National park from Whitefish to East Glacier. In August, the Iron Horse Golf Club in Whitefish will once again host a fundraising dinner to benefit the Montana Meth Project. The event will feature fantastic food and music in a beautiful setting. The Montana Meth Project is now able to accept recurring credit card gifts. Annual gifts can be spread out through smaller monthly payments for a gift that continues to give throughout the year. For more information on this program, and the events above, please visit www.montanameth.org.
DONATE THROUGH “MONTANA SHARES” PAYROLL DEDUCTION AND RAFFLE
The Montana Shares Program is an easy way to give to the Montana Meth Project. In addition, their annual raffle is another great way to contribute, plus get a chance to win one of nearly 50 prizes, including gas cards, handmade jewelry, artwork, and more. If you are interested in either the Montana Shares’ payroll donations or purchasing raffle tickets, please contact us at www.montanameth.org.
MONTANA’S CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION LEAD FEDERAL FUNDING EFFORT
Montana’s Congressional delegates—Sen. Baucus, Sen. Tester, and Rep. Rehberg— continued their leadership in addressing the Meth problem in Montana and nationally through ongoing efforts to direct significant federal funding to Meth prevention. This month, the Montana Meth Project will receive nearly $1 million in federal funding secured by Senators Max Baucus and Jon Tester, and Congressman Denny Rehberg in the Commerce, Science, and Justice Appropriations Bill in last year’s session. An additional $2 million in funding for the Montana Meth Project has been requested by Sen. Baucus, Sen. Tester, and Rep. Rehberg in this year’s appropriations bill. Montana’s Congressional delegation has also taken a leading role to expand the program nationally and drafted legislation that would provide $20 million in federal funding to support Meth awareness and prevention campaigns in Montana and other affected regions. “We need to get behind the Meth Project and give it our full support. This is a chance to make a real difference in our state.” – Max Baucus, U.S. Senator, Montana “If you look at what’s happened in the state of Montana, it’s pretty exciting. It’s time for Congress to commit to taking the Meth Project national.” – Denny Rehberg, U.S. Congressman, Montana
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NEW LAUNCH: WYOMING BECOMES 5TH STATE TO ADOPT METH PROJECT
On June 16, 2008, Wyoming became the fifth state to implement the Meth Project’s large-scale prevention campaign aimed at significantly reducing first-time methamphetamine use among Wyoming youth. The Wyoming Meth Project kicked off with a press conference at the McMurry Training Center in Casper. According to the Department of Justice, methamphetamine is the primary drug threat to Wyoming, costing millions of dollars in lost productivity, contributing to jail and prison populations, and often leading to domestic violence and child abuse—adversely impacting families and children across the state. Wyoming ranks #2 in the country for Meth use among teens ages 12-17, and #1 in the country for Meth use among young adults ages 18-25. Members of the Wyoming Meth Project Advisory Council, as well as federal and state officials, discussed the importance of the Project in driving Meth from the state and expressed their support for the effort. “The people affected by this epidemic are not just nameless, faceless statistics. They are our friends, our relatives, our co-workers, and the children of our communities,” said U.S. Senator John Barrasso, R-WY. “The Wyoming Meth Project will play a key role in educating our youth and reducing demand for this highlyaddictive, devastating drug.”
The Wyoming Meth Project Launch at the McMurry Training Center in Casper, WY
THE PROBLEM
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Wyoming ranks #2 in the U.S. for Meth use by teens ages 12 to 17 Wyoming ranks #1 in the U.S. for Meth use by young adults ages 18 to 25 About one in four Wyoming teens (23%) see little or no risk in trying Meth 30% of Wyoming teens and 47% of young adults believe that Meth “helps you lose weight” One third of Wyoming teens and 21% of young adults say their friends would not give them “a hard time” for using Meth
WYOMING RELEASES RESULTS OF FIRST STATEWIDE METH SURVEY
The Wyoming Meth Project released results from three statewide surveys measuring attitudes and behaviors that Wyoming teens, young adults, and parents have toward methamphetamine. Results of the first Wyoming Meth Use & Attitudes Survey show that young people in Wyoming believe Meth is a low-risk, easily accessible drug that offers benefits—beliefs that put Wyoming youth at significant risk. Despite the highly addictive nature of methamphetamine, nearly one quarter of Wyoming teens (23%) see little to no risk in trying the drug. Thirty percent of teens and nearly 50% of young adults believe there are significant benefits to methamphetamine use, citing the drug will help them alleviate boredom, lose weight, make them happier, and provide increased energy. Not only is Meth seen as a low-risk drug, the data also shows it is readily available to young people throughout the state. More than half of young adults (54%) and 35% of teens say it would be easy for them to acquire Meth and 1 in 3 young adults and 16% of teens report that someone has offered them the drug or tried to get them to use it. “These new survey results show us just how vulnerable our youth are to Meth use and addiction; they are at tremendous risk,” said Jean Davies, Executive Director of the Wyoming Meth Project. “Wyoming ranks second in the nation for teen Meth use and (Continued on page 13) 12
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wyomingmethproject.org
SURVEY RESULTS CONTINUED
we cannot afford to cede any more ground to this drug. Clearly, we need to address the misperceptions that Meth carries little risk and provides benefits to users and communicate the very real dangers of Meth abuse before this very serious statewide problem becomes an unmanageable crisis.” Prevention expert Brenda Eichoff-Johnson believes that teens and parents each have roles to play in stemming the tide of Meth use in Wyoming. Survey data suggests that Meth use is socially acceptable to many young people in Wyoming, as 32% of teens report their friends would not give them a hard time for using the drug. Furthermore, nearly 40% of young people say they have not tried to dissuade their friends from taking Meth. “Meth is clearly a serious problem in Wyoming, and addressing attitudes and correcting misperceptions about the drug are two important keys to prevention,” said Eichoff-Johnson, Executive Director of Mercer House. “Young people get information about drugs from many different sources, but research shows that parents are still the most credible source of drug information for teens. The Wyoming Meth Use & Attitudes Survey shows that despite the wide availability and perceived benefits of the drug, nearly half of the young people in Wyoming have never discussed Meth with their parents.” The Wyoming Meth Use & Attitudes Survey was executed from April 18 to May 30, 2008 by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media, prior to the launch of the Wyoming Meth Project’s statewide Meth prevention campaign in June, 2008. The survey was conducted among randomly selected and representative samples of 909 teens, 300 young adults, and 323 parents of 12 to 19 year olds. To view the full survey report, please visit www.wyomingmethproject.org.
JEAN DAVIES NAMED WYOMING METH PROJECT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Wyoming Meth Project named Jean Davies, a well-known supporter in the fight against methamphetamine, as the Executive Director in April, 2008. Before joining the Wyoming Meth Project, Davies worked at the Wyoming Behavioral Institute for 22 years, and has been a part of Casper’s community methamphetamine initiative for the last six years. In her role as the Director of Marketing for Wyoming Behavioral Institute, Jean was responsible for referral development, media marketing materials, and various other marketing roles. Prior to working at WBI, Jean was the Executive Director for Wyoming Democratic Party for 5 1/2 years. Jean has served on the board of the Wyoming Community Coalition for Health Education, NOWCAP Human Rights Advisory Board, American Heart Association, and the Advisory Board for Children’s Advocacy Project. She is currently on the Casper Community Meth Watch Committee, Natrona County Suicide Prevention task force, Wyoming Suicide Prevention Task Force, Wyoming Youth Suicide Prevention Advisory Board, National Native American Youth Suicide Prevention Board, Natrona County Substance Abuse Providers, a co-chair for Heart Center of Wyoming golf tournament, and the Board of Directors of the United Way of Natrona County.
WYOMING FOUNDATIONS PARTNER WITH METH PROJECT
Community leaders from the McMurry Foundation, Daniels Fund, Tate Foundation, and other foundations throughout the state collectively developed a funding plan that brought the award-winning Meth Project campaign to Wyoming. “We teamed with partners across the state to bring the Meth Project to Wyoming because we’ve all seen first-hand how Meth is tearing our communities apart,” said Susie McMurry, Co-Founder and Secretary of the McMurry Foundation. “We all have a role to play in reversing this situation—and we all believe that we’ve found a prevention model that will work.”
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