HISTORY
The Wisconsin Dells Youth Futures Alliance has existed as a non-profit organization since 1994. Originally a UW-Extension project and a demonstration site with a Federal Grant to support it, Youth Futures was founded to reduce the number of underage youth using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Made up of youth and adults, Youth Futures relies on four main strategies to accomplish their goals.
- Parent Education and Support
- Public Awareness
- Enforcement of Policies and Law
- Meaningful Alternative Activities
ACTIVITIES
Family and Community Town Suppers (FACTS)--evenings for discussion "around the dinner table" of topics of interest to parents, youth and community members.
Parents' Pledge Directory-Parents of Middle and High School youth pledge to not provide alcohol to teens under their supervision, to accept phone calls from other parents, to talk to their teens about their expectations, and to pick up their child (no questions asked ‘til the next day) if they are in danger and need a ride home.
Students Against Destructive Destruction (SADD)-Youth Futures supports this youth group at WDHS. This group offers teens a vehicle for working with their peers in prevention activities.
Post Prom-This event offers those who attend the prom a safe drug-free alternative to parties where alcohol is available.
Sensational Senior Sendoff (SSS)-Students who are graduating from WDHS are invited to participate in a "party" the night before graduation in a safe, drug-free atmosphere. Supported by the Dells business community, this event has changed the traditions around graduation.
TiPS classes-Responsible Beverage Server classes for those who sell/serve alcohol, these classes educate those in the front lines of preventing youth access to alcohol and qualify them for "bartender" licenses.
Link & Learn-held in February, this mini-conference offers training to adults who work with youth in after school and out-of-school clubs and activities. Topics related to youth development and techniques for working with youth are presented in an atmosphere designed to maximize discussion and sharing of expertise among participants.
OTHER PROJECTS
Informational letters re providing alcohol to teens-these letters are signed by many community members and lay out for parents the consequences one could face if they provide alcohol to underage youth. These letters are sent to junior parents before Prom and senior parents before Graduation as these are the most dangerous times for underage use of alcohol.
Parent Resource Center-tapes, books, pamphlets, and other educational materials are placed in the Kilbourn Public Library for parents and others who care about youth.
Project Northland-this sixth, seventh, and eighth grade award-winning curriculum has shown fantastic results in reducing teen use of alcohol. Youth Futures supports the poster fair and Amazing Alternative Activities involved.