PARENTS AND COMMUNITIES TOGETHER (PACT)

In the Fall of 2003, all 6th, 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students in Otoe County were given the opportunity to participate in the 2003 Nebraska Risk and Protective Factors Survey.  The purpose of the survey was to measure both positive and negative factors in place that determine students participation or non participation in such things as alcohol and drug use and abuse, violent behavior, and other risky behaviors that can be harmful to the overall environment of our communities.

From the information gathered from that survey, it was determined that Otoe County students faced the greatest risk to healthy lifestyles in the form of alcohol.  Along with alcohol being the overwhelmingly preferred drug among students, it was also shown that adult attitudes concerning alcohol contributed to an environment that made youth feel that drinking was “no big deal.” PACT was formed in the Fall of 2004 to change that environment. 

Our goal is simple.  We will see a 10% reduction in youth alcohol use in Otoe County by the end of 2007.  We will achieve this goal through grass roots organization and activism of both youth and adults.

Youth alcohol abuse costs Nebraska taxpayers approximately 400 million dollars per year.  The social cost in ruined and lost lives, shattered dreams, and increased likelihood to use other drugs is immeasurable.

If you would like to join PACT in our efforts to reduce teen alcohol use in Otoe County, please
e-mail program coordinator Tim Regler at tregler@windstream.net or call 873-6343. 

As our motto says, “CHANGE STARTS WITH YOU”!

Click here to Report Underage Drinking