Anti-Drug Program

* In response to “DARE Marks a Decade of Growth and Controversy,” Sept. 9:

I have been a volunteer with the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program for nearly four years. I’ve visited many classrooms with the officers. I have attended countless graduations and other events. The DARE officers are great with young people in teaching them the harmful effects of drugs and the dangers of gangs. DARE has children play roles that teach them various ways to resist pushers and gangs and to develop strength in themselves.

The DARE program, in my opinion, deserves everyone’s wholehearted support. We all know that there is no one solution that will stop the flow of drugs . . . that’s because drugs are big business, and there are people who make billions of dollars from that business.

When young people see an officer from the program in their classroom, they view this officer as a friend, a caring individual who is taking the time to inform them of the dangers of drug abuse. Part of this view is the understanding of how important they really are to the making of a better world.

It is deeply disturbing to see television or newspaper commentaries that say DARE is not as effective as it could be. When a fire is burning out of control and the firetruck arrives to put the fire out, how effective can the firefighters be if people are choking off the supply of water?

The enemy is funded by unlimited resources. Worse still, it has no regard for human life. How do we stop it unless we too are organized, motivated, clear of vision and unrelenting in trying to save lives?

I believe the DARE officers, and volunteers, in schools across the country deserve our support, respect and praise. By working together as a team, we can save many young people from the scourge of drugs.

Will you join in helping to build up--not tear down--those who are trying? Whatever your answer, we will continue to fight the fire.

ROSIE GRIER

Santa Monica