Inspiring Teens to Stay Drug-Free: Angie Ferguson's Journey with DFCA
The best branches are very thorough in their planning phase and they're willing to take the time to do the planning correctly, and they really believe in the power of enabling the students to impact their own school culture.
What if there was a club that encouraged high school students to stay drug-free by offering them real incentives? That's exactly what Angie Ferguson, Executive Director of Drug Free Clubs of America (DFCA), discusses in this episode of the Cover2 Resources podcast. Angie shares the heartfelt story of how DFCA was born from a simple yet powerful idea proposed by her father and his colleague, both firefighters who saw the need for genuine preventative efforts against drug abuse.
They envisioned a club that would reward students for passing drug tests, aiming to create a positive shift in school culture. Angie reflects on her own high school days, noting how such a program could have made a significant difference for friends who struggled with substance use. The conversation dives into how schools can implement DFCA, either through their administration or by partnering with community organizations.
The rewards are customized to fit local communities, making the program both unique and effective. Angie highlights the profound impact DFCA has had on high school environments, with student ambassadors proudly leading the charge against addiction. This episode offers a glimpse into how DFCA is changing lives and empowering teens to make healthier choices. If you're curious about innovative ways to combat youth drug abuse or want to hear an inspiring story of community-driven change, this episode is a must-listen.