Safe Teens Program
The mission of the Safe Teens Coalition is to address issues that directly affect area teens through educational programs, public awareness campaigns, media outreach and data collection.
The coalition is a collaboration of representatives from various area organizations, medical professionals, educators, media specialists and individuals that are dedicated and passionate in helping teens.
For more information about how you can help, contact Tammy at 782-9899 or tblaylock@theallianceofswmo.org .
In the past year, Safe Teens helped establish a school safety team at East Newton High School. SODA (Students Opposed to Drugs and Alcohol) is a student-run organization designed to encourage and model responsible decision-making to their classmates. Last year, the group implemented the Safe and Sober program, which promotes safe driving to peers and educates fellow students about the dangers of alcohol and drug use. 
Safe Teens also worked with Carl Junction with weekly seat belt safety messages for students. Additionally, East Newton welcomed special speakers who addressed students during school assemblies and also displayed booths at local health fairs to promote healthy decisions for teens. Teams from both schools attended the Team Spirit conference in Jefferson City to further develop their leadership skills.
Over 6,800 students and teachers in Southwest Missouri were presented with inspiring quality media presentations through collaboration between Safe Teens, Fox 14 News and Motivational Media Assemblies. These presentations challenged area students to strive to be their best while avoiding unhealthy behaviors such as drug and alcohol use that could negatively impact their lives.
Web Sites for Teens
Drivers Safety - www.keepthedrive.com
Drug Prevention – www.thecoolspot.gov
Anti-violence – www.loveisnotabuse.com
Web Sites for Parents
Drug Prevention – www.theantidrug.com
Alcohol Prevention – www.dontserveteens.gov/index.html
Joplin Area Coalition
The Joplin Area Coalition used the past year to focus on expanding membership. Growth was accomplished through a capacity-building business luncheon featuring speaker Charles O’Reilly.
The Coalition also held focus groups with area students and parents to determine community attitudes about drug and alcohol use. This beneficial information has and will be used by coalition members to assist in programming to deter youth from substance abuse.
Contact Tammy Blaylock Community Coordinator for Safe Teens info tblaylock@theallianceofswmo.org or 417-782-9899.