2018 Year in Review: Drug-Free Tennessee

2018 saw the expansion of Drug-Free Tennessee, carrying out the work of the international organization, the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, in the Southeast United States.

To start off the year, Drug-Free Tennessee (DFT) participated in events to distribute the Truth About Drugs booklets. The group held special events for World Health Day in April and International Day Against Drug Abuse in June.  World Health Day saw many health related organizations join together in the Church of Scientology community hall to network, learn and discuss ways to improve Nashville’s health for all. Awards were given to pivotal community partners who encourage healthy living.

For International Day Against Drug Abuse, DFT called together several groups for “Drug Abuse: Preventing It Together,” where police, educators and neighbors spoke about solutions for the city.

Throughout the summer, volunteers went into local neighborhoods to distribute information as part of local health fairs and resource cafes. DFT was distributing booklets and materials at the Partners In Prevention Conference and during Recovery Congregations.

Next, DFT volunteers participated at National Night Out Against Crime, getting the booklets out to everyone who attended the Night Out celebration for the 10th year in a row.

October is a busy month for the drug prevention group with the final week “Red Ribbon Week,” being a nationally recognized time for drug prevention and education. DFT worked with groups to distribute Truth About Drugs booklets and hold Halloween-themed events to help kids make good choices.

Julie Brinker, Drug-Free Tennessee spokesperson, said, “We have had a good year, but drugs are still a problem in this state. We have big plans for 2019 and are ready to help anyone in the state who is trying to address this issue.”

Drug-Free Tennessee distributes the Truth About Drugs booklet, which cover all basic side effects of drugs, common street names, and how to recognize when you are being persuaded by a dealer. To learn more or to order booklets, visit drugfreesouth.org.