If you could, would you prevent your child from engaging in risky behaviors, like drugs?  What if you could do something in your community that would guarantee healthier lives for the area's youth? There isn't one magic solution when it comes to keeping children healthy and safe, but there are things that can be done to increase those chances.  Several years ago a non-profit organization called the Search Institute came up with a list of 40 positive items, called assets, which kids need to succeed.  This list includes things like a family that provides love and support, a safe home and neighborhood, opportunities to participate in creative activities, and a healthy sense of personal power.  Not all 40 of these assets are required, but rather, the more of these items a child has in his or her life, the less likely the child is to partake in risky behaviors.

In the next 18 months the Winston Area Community Partnership (WACP) is going to work on a community-wide campaign to increase the number of assets for kids, grades 6-12.  In 2002, an Assets Survey was conducted on all Douglas County youth in this age range, and out of the 40 assets, the average reported number was just 17 assets.  When compared to nationwide averages, this is not a shockingly low number; however an ideal "healthy" range starts at 30. 

So, what can you do?  Start by reading a list of all 40 Assets at www.search-institute.org/assets.  Consider whether there are actions you can change in your own household or as you walk through the community.  It may be as simple as listening to a child tell about his or her day and showing that you care, or more complicated, like helping with the planning of the future teen center.  If you would like to get involved further with the 40 Assets community campaign in Winston, watch for news of upcoming events or contact Linda at WACP 580-7336, e-mail healthywinston@yahoo.com.

Linda Cline is the Program Manager for WACP's Drug Free Communities Grant, a federal grant program dedicated to the reduction of substance use and abuse.