May Offline Happenings!

Safe Graduation, Healthy Baby Month,
Mental Health Awareness Month
 
May 2, 12:00 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

May 4, 10:00 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Kids Safety Fair
Long Lines Family Rec Center
Food at 11:30 am while supplies last
Free T-shirt for first 100 kids to visit all booths
Sioux City, Iowa

May 6, 7:00 – 8:00  p.m.
Mayor’s Youth Commission Executive Council
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

May 9, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Faces of Mental Illness Conference
To register call 712-324-5061 or 800-352-4907
Sioux City Convention Center
Sioux City, Iowa

May 11, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Held on Saturdays:   June 15, July 20, Aug 24, Sept 14, Oct 19, Dec 7
Boot Camp for New Dads
Leiter Room, Mercy Medical Center, Sioux City, Iowa
Pre-registration required by e-mailing schlessr@mercyhealth.com or call 712-279-2507

May 13, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Mayor’s  Youth Commission Meeting
City Hall, 405 6th Street
Sioux City, Iowa

In Memory:  Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Nancy Mounts who died on April 28th. Nancy was a co-founder of Siouxland CARES.  We are eternally grateful to her for her vision and volunteerism. We have many, many wonderful memories.  Nancy will always be in our hearts.

Special thanks to Qdoba and Clear Channel Radio for hosting a fundraiser for Siouxland CARES on April 17th.

MYTH:  Parents can’t influence their child’s alcohol use.
FACT:   Perceived parental disapproval is the strongest influence on youthful alcohol use.  In fact, children who believe their parents would strongly disapprove of their using a particular substance are less likely to use.  Information provided by SAMHSA.
 

If you’re serious about preventing underage alcohol and drug abuse in Siouxland…Don’t rent hotel rooms for your teen and his/her friends and don’t allow underage drinking parties to happen in your home.  This “prom and graduation tradition” provides too much privacy and too many opportunities for illegal alcohol and other drug use.  In addition, you can be held liable for personal and property damages.  Know the facts; keep our children safe and healthy!!

Parents:  Help Your Teens Party Right at Graduation
 
Parents and Graduates…Make memories, not headlines.  Celebrate alcohol and other drug free.
 
Graduation…
Graduation is a time to celebrate.  But before your graduates party, take the time to talk with them about alcohol—it just may save a life.
 
It’s about your teen…
A teenager’s brain is still developing and it is very sensitive to alcohol effects on judgment and decision-making.
 
Too much alcohol becomes a deadly poison…
If your graduates drink enough, they will eventually get sleepy and pass out.  Reflexes like gagging and breathing can be suppressed. That means they could vomit and choke to death or just stop breathing.  They may even be at risk for alcohol poisoning.
 
Think about it!
If graduates drink too much, it can mean trips to the emergency room, arrests, and sexual assaults.  They could put themselves and their friends in real danger.  Ask them to consider this:  Is that any way to celebrate? Tell your graduate to play it safe and party right at graduation.
 
Talk with your graduate…
Research shows that parents do make a difference.  Talking with your graduate about alcohol now could prevent serious problems later.
 
Information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, SAMHSA, National Institutes of Health.  For more information please visit www.niaaa.nih.gov.
 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Types of Mental Illness:  There are many different conditions that are recognized as mental illnesses. The more common types include:  Anxiety disorders,  Mood disorders,  Psychotic disorders, Eating disorders, Impulse control and addiction disorders,  and Personality disorders.  Source:  WEB MD

Learn more by attending the Faces of Mental Illness Conference on May 9 at the Sioux City Convention Center.
 

May is Healthy Baby Month

• See a doctor or health care provider for early and regular prenatal care.
• Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet.
• You knew your baby would cry.  No matter how frustrated you feel…DO NOT SHAKE THE BABY!  Safely place the baby in a crib and walk away.  Count to 20 or 100.  Turn on music and sing.  Splash water on your face.  Phone a friend.  But never, ever shake a baby.
• “When You Use, So Does Your Baby!”

CARE to Connect:
Like us on Facebook
 

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact 

82% of students surveyed feel their parents would feel it is wrong or very wrong for them to drink alcohol.  beSomebody and let’s make this number 100%!  

Graduation Dates 2013:
Bishop Heelan  May 19
East  May 21
North  May 22
West  May 20
Akron-Westfield  May 19
Dakota Valley  May 18
Elk Point Jefferson  May 18
Gehlen Catholic  May 19
Hinton  May 19
Homer  May 19
Kingsley-Pierson  May 12
Lawton-Bronson  May 19
LeMars Public  May 19
Maple Valley  May 19
Remsen St. Mary’s  May 19
Remsen Union  May 19
River Valley  May 12
Sergeant Bluff  May 19
South Sioux City  May 19
West Monona  May 12
Westwood Sloan  May 19
Whiting  May 18
Woodbury Central  May 19

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org

parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.  Text “41411″ and type in besomebody to received weekly text messages (rates may apply).

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  

About Siouxland CARES.

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,296 hours in 2012 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.

Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!

March’s Offline Happenings!

Poisons and Inhalants Prevention Week

March 4, 7:00 – 8:00  p.m.
Mayor’s Youth Commission Executive Council
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

March 7, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

March 16, 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Held on Saturdays:  Apr 13, May 11, June 15, July 20, Aug 24, Sept 14, Oct 19, Dec 7
Boot Camp for New Dads
Leiter Room, Mercy Medical Center, Sioux City, Iowa
Pre-registration required by e-mailing schlessr@mercyhealth.com or call 712-279-2507

March 18, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Mayor’s  Youth Commission Meeting
City Hall, 405 6th Street
Sioux City, Iowa

SAVE THE DATE!!

April 5, 2013
Protecting Families Spring Conference
Sioux City Convention Center, 801 Fourth Streest
Sioux City, Iowa

MYTH:  Sniffing glue gives an instant rush, so there isn’t time for it to hurt you.
FACT:   Inhalants enter the blood and go through the body in seconds.  Sniffing large amounts can cause a heart attack or death from suffocation because inhalants, like glue, replace oxygen in the lungs.

Source:  www.relevancyinc.com

10,830
Calls to Poison Centers Each Day
 

National Poison Prevention Week

This year, March 17 –23, 2013 marks the 51^st Anniversary of National Poison Prevention Week.  Each year, more than 2 million poisonings are reported to the 57 poison control centers across the country. More than 90 percent of these poisonings occur in the home. Traditionally, poisonings are thought of as happening mainly to children, but people of all ages are exposed to poisons. 

Poisonings are now the No. 1 cause of
accidental death nationwide, ahead of even car and motorcycle accidents.
 

Most poison situations could be avoided with education and preventive measures.  Simple steps such as reading labels and directions before using chemicals and taking medicine, storing medicines and household chemicals up high and out of reach of children, and using child-resistant packaging help minimize poison accidents. 
 
The Iowa Statewide Poison Control Center experts recommend being prepared for a poison emergency by adding the number to cell phone contacts.  Follow the Iowa Statewide Poison Control Center on Facebook for breaking news, safety tips, recalls and trivia questions.  Be poison smart! 
 
If you have a poison emergency, call 1-800-222-1222. Don’t waste time searching the internet.  When every minute counts, calling the experts before consulting a search engine is crucial. The Poison Hotline is free, can be reached from anywhere in the United States, and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. 
 

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact 

82% of students who took the Greater Sioux City Metro Area Youth Survey in 2012 believe their parents would feel it is wrong or very wrong for them to drink alcohol.  Our goal for 2013 equals 100%.

Prom Dates 2013:
Bishop Heelan  April 20
East  May 4
North  May 4
West  May 11
Akron-Westfield  May 4
Dakota Valley  April 27
Elk Point Jefferson  April 20
Gehlen Catholic  April 13
Hinton  April 20
Homer  April 20
Kingsley-Pierson  April 27
Lawton-Bronson  April 20
LeMars Public  May 4
Maple Valley  April 13
Sergeant Bluff  April 27
South Sioux City  April 27
Remsen St. Mary’s  April 20
Remsen Union  April 20
River Valley  April 20
West Monona  April 6
Westwood Sloan  April 20
Whiting  April 27
Woodbury Central  April 6

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org

parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

February’s Offline Happenings!

National Teen Dating Violence Prevention
                           Month
Respect for ones self, family and others

February 4, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
continues on Febr 11, 18, 25 and March 4, 11, 18
Becoming a Love and Logic Parent
Catholic Charities Office
1601 Military Road, Sioux City, Iowa
These sessions are free.

February 4, 7:00 – 8:00  p.m.
Mayor’s Youth Commission Executive Council
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

February 7,  9:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Comprehensive Strategy Community Meeting
Briar Cliff University, 3303 Rebecca Street, Sioux City, Iowa
Assisi Room in the Saint Francis Center of the Stark Student Center
Topic:  Economic Deprivation in Siouxland; and exploring the Individual Development Account Model

February 7, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

February 14, 2013
Valentine’s Day
Show your loved ones you CARE!
In addition to the U.S., Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Denmark, Italy and Japan.

February 19, 1:30 p.m.
Bully Documentary
Western Iowa Tech Community College,
Cargill Auditorium, no charge. 98 minutes.
MPAA Rating: PG-13

February 25, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Mayor’s  Youth Commission Meeting
City Hall, 405 6th Street
Sioux City, Iowa

MYTH:  All of the other kids drink alcohol,  I need to drink to fit in.
FACT:   If you really want to fit in, stay sober.  Most young people don’t drink alcohol.  National research shows that more than 70 percent of youth aged 12 to 20 haven’t had a drink in the past month.
Source:  www.stopalcoholabuse.gov, SAMHSA

Teen Dating Violence

Unhealthy relationships can start early and last a lifetime. Dating violence often starts with teasing and name calling. These behaviors are often thought to be a “normal” part of a relationship. But these behaviors can set the stage for more serious violence like physical assault and rape.

What is dating violence?

Teen dating violence is defined as the physical, sexual, or psychological/emotional violence within a dating relationship, as well as stalking. It can occur in person or electronically and may occur between a current or former dating partner. You may have heard several different words used to describe teen dating violence. Here are just a few:

         Relationship Abuse

          Intimate Partner Violence

          Relationship Violence

          Dating Abuse

          Domestic Abuse

          Domestic Violence

Adolescents and adults are often unaware that teens experience dating violence. In a nationwide survey, 9.4 percent of high school students report being hit, slapped, or physically hurt on purpose by their boyfriend or girlfriend in the 12 months prior to the survey. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey). About 1 in 5 women and nearly 1 in 7 men who ever experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner, first experienced some form of partner violence between 11 and 17 years of age (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2010 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey).

What are the consequences of dating violence?

As teens develop emotionally, they are heavily influenced by their relationship experiences. Healthy relationship behaviors can have a positive effect on a teen’s emotional development. Unhealthy, abusive or violent relationships can cause short term and long term negative effects, or consequences to the developing teen. Victims of teen dating violence are more likely to do poorly in school, and report binge drinking, suicide attempts, and physical fighting. Victims may also carry the patterns of violence into future relationships.

Why Does Dating Violence Happen?

Communicating with your partner, managing uncomfortable emotions like anger and jealousy, and treating others with respect are a few ways to keep relationships healthy and non-violent. Teens receive messages about how to behave in relationships from peers, adults in their lives, and the media. All too often these examples suggest violence in a relationship is okay. Violence is never acceptable. But there are reasons why it happens.

Violence is related to certain risk factors. Risks of having unhealthy relationships increase for teens who:

         Believe it’s okay to use threats or violence to get their way or  to express frustration or anger.

         Use alcohol or drugs.

         Can’t manage anger or frustration.

         Hang out with violent peers.

         Have multiple sexual partners.

         Have a friend involved in dating violence.

         Are depressed or anxious.

         Have learning difficulties and other problems at school.

         Don’t have parental supervision and support.

         Witness violence at home or in the community.

         Have a history of aggressive behavior or bullying.

Dating violence can be prevented when teens, families, organizations, and communities work together to implement effective prevention strategies.

Source:  cdc.gov/violence prevention

CARE to Connect:
Like us on Facebook
 

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact
 

SIOUXLAND PLEDGE OF NONVIOLENCE
 
Making peace must start within ourselves, our families, our homes, and in our community.  Each of us commits ourselves as best we can to become
non-violent and peaceful people:

To Respect My Self

To care for myself physically, emotionally and mentally; to take responsibility for myself;
 and to resist negative peer pressure and self-destructive behaviors.
To Respect Others

To affirm others and to respect diversity among people and to avoid uncaring criticism,
hateful words, physical attacks, and self-destructive behavior.
To Communicate Better
To share my feelings honestly, to look for safe ways to express my anger and other emotions, and to work at solving problems peacefully.

 To Listen
To listen carefully to others, especially those who disagree with me and to consider others’ feelings and needs rather than insist on having my own way.

 To Forgive

To apologize and make amends when I have hurt another,
to forgive others, and to keep from holding grudges.
To Respect the Environment

To treat the environment and all living things with respect
and to use resources carefully.
To Play Creatively

To select entertainment and toys that support nonviolent values and to avoid
entertainment that makes violence look exciting, funny or acceptable.
To Be Courageous

To challenge violence in all its forms whenever I encounter it, whether at home, at school,

 at work, or in the community and to stand with others who are treated unfairly.
 This is our pledge.

  “Eliminating violence one person at a time, starting with ourselves.”

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org

parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  

About Siouxland CARES.

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,845 hours in 2011 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.
Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!

January’s Offline Happenings!

Crime Stopper’s Month
Mentoring Month

January 3, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

January 7, 7:00 – 8:00  p.m.
Mayor’s Youth Commission Executive Council
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

January 21, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Mayor’s  Youth Commission Meeting
City Hall, 405 6th Street
Sioux City, Iowa

MYTH:  Talk to me about drugs – that’s a bigger issue than alcohol.
FACT:  Both drugs and alcohol are serious problems among teens.  Alcohol kills young people just like cocaine, heroin and other serious illegal drugs.  Also, according to recent studies, nearly one-half (47%) of persons who began drinking before age 14 were alcohol dependent at some point in their lifetime.
Source:  NIAAA, NESARC and www.thecoolspot.gov

Why Mentor?
By Amanda Dahl
Marketing & Recruitment Director
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland
 

With the calendar flipping to the start of a New Year, it signals new beginnings and the age-old tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. We’ve all taken to the cliché resolutions of losing weight, eating healthier, organizing that dreadful closet or finally sticking to a budget at least once or maybe even twice.  But let’s be honest, how many of us have stuck to those resolutions past February?
 
Resolutions are commitments to improving yourself. It’s making a lifestyle change to benefit and enhance your life. What if you could tackle your personal goals and actually stick to your resolutions while teaching someone else how important it is to exercise, eat healthy, live responsibly and reach your goals?  Well, then not only would you be improving your life, but you’d be helping to improve another person’s life.

January is a time to set New Year’s resolutions and it is also National Mentoring Month. It’s a perfect match and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland is an ideal way to make your resolutions a reality. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland provides quality one-to-one mentoring relationships for children in our community by matching someone like you (a “Big”), someone that want to make a change in their life, with a child (a “Little”), someone that needs a change in their life. 
 
Here’s how easy it can be to be a Big and stick to your New Year’s resolutions this year. If your goal is to lose weight, you could take your Little for a walk around an indoor track, climb the rock wall or go sledding. If you want to eat healthier, you could pick out a tasty recipe together, go shopping for the ingredients and prepare the meal. As winter passes and spring turns to summer, you could even start a garden together.
 
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland holds itself accountable for helping children who face adversity achieve measurable, positive outcomes. We believe these achievements matter to our investors, partners, volunteers, and the children and families we serve, so when you become a mentor, you’re really impacting a lot of people. Mentors help create a positive academic, socio-emotional and behavioral outcomes for youth in areas linked to high school graduation, avoidance of juvenile delinquency and college or job readiness.
 
We’re happy to answer any questions you might have about becoming a mentor. Call Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland at 712.239.9890 or visit bigbrothersbigsisters.com to sign up or learn more.
 
Make a resolution to help yourself and help a child in 2013. Become a Big.

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact
 

A total of 57,606 students are included in Siouxland CARES Youth Survey composite database from 1999 to 2011. Analysis by Briar Cliff University student Corey Schink in cooperation with Sister Grace Ann Witte shows that perception of harm influences a student’s likelihood of using alcohol or other drugs.

Source:  Siouxland CARES Metro Area Survey

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org
parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  

About Siouxland CARES.

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,845 hours in 2011 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.
Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!

December’s Offline Happenings!

December 1 – 31, 2012
Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month
Drive sober or get pulled over!!

December 6, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

December 7, 8:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Ethics:  Practice What You Preach
Please note: The class size is limited, and is expected to reach capacity. Please register early to ensure you get a seat.  Cost is $35, payable in advance. Deadline: December 1, 2012
Jackson Recovery Centers, 800 5th Street, Sioux City, Iowa
Contact:  Christy Stinger at 712-234-2308, Fax: 712-234-2398

December 8, 12:00 noon – 2:00 p.m.
Agape Dinner 2012
Santa, Presents and Clothes
St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 12th and Douglas, Sioux City, Iowa
Enter through alley door off 12th Street
 

Happy Holidays!!
 

MYTH:  It is no big deal to drink a few and drive.
FACT:  Buzzed driving is drunk driving.
Source:  NHTSA

Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month
 

Local law enforcement will be promoting this national campaign through local papers and television stations throughout the holiday season.  We encourage all of you to drive responsibly and have a safe holiday season!

Reminder:  12 ounces of 5% beer = 5 ounces of 12% wine, = 1.5 ounces of 80 proof liquor.  The glass of wine you get at many bars and restaurants is 8 ounces and it may be more than 12% so that one glass may actually be two drinks!!!  Impaired driving crashes are preventable.  beSomebody and don’t drink and drive.  Celebrate with care this holiday season.

During the holiday season, and year-round, take steps to make sure that you and everyone you celebrate with avoids driving under the influence of alcohol.  Following these tips can help you stay safe:

· Plan ahead.  Always designate a non-drinking driver before any holiday party or celebration begins.

· Take the keys.  Do not let a friend drive if they are impaired.

· Be a helpful host.  If you’re hosting a party this holiday season, remind your guests to plan ahead and designate their sober driver, always offer alcohol-free beverages, and make sure all of your guests leave with a sober driver.

Information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Congratulations to our 2012 Top Twelve Young Ambassadors

Roy Barker, Riverside
Juliana Benitez, North Middle
Elizabeth Clay, Sacred Heart
Drake Coupland, Hunt
Kaylee Henn, Home Schooled
Mariah Lanning, Liberty
Alex Miller, Bryant
Ashley Olveda, East Middle
Shay Sargent, Leeds
Brandon Schroder, West Middle
Taylor Strawn, East Middle
Stephanie Warnstadt, Leeds
 

Sponsored by the Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission in cooperation with Siouxland CARES
 

Local beSomebody YouTube Contest a Success
 

Thirteen entries were submitted for the beSomebody YouTube competition. Schools then voted for one entry per school to be judged for the contest. Schools submitting videos were Bishop Heelan High School, North High School, East High School, East Middle School, North Middle School and Bishop Heelan Sacred Heart School.

Bishop Heelan High School and North High School were honored as the top view getters in the 2012 beSomebody YouTube contest, sponsored by Briar Cliff Enactus, Siouxland CARES, and the United Way of Siouxland. Each team received a $250 award. Members of the team are:

Bishop Heelan: Ben Linden, Joe Kipp, Alex Linden and Sadie Elbert

North High: Deontre Dean, Matt Bennett, Xavier Scarlett, Faris Najdawi

CARE to Connect:
Like us on Facebook
 

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact

438 10th and 12th graders (20%) reported drinking and driving in 2012.  This percentage is too high!!  Please help us educate the teenage drivers in your household!
Source:  Siouxland CARES Metro Area Survey

 Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org
parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  

About Siouxland CARES.

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,845 hours in 2011 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.
Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!

November’s Offline Happenings!

November 1, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

November 2, 8:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Addressing and Treating Nicotine Addiction with your Patients
Jackson Recovery Centers, 800 5th Street, Sioux City, Iowa
(712) 234-2300

November 9, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Supervisor’s Drug Free Workplace Training
Jackson Recovery Centers, 800 5th Street, Sioux City, Iowa
Registration:  Christy Stinger, Phone (712) 234-2308, Fax (712) 234-2398

November 15, 2012
Great American Smokeout

November 27, 2012
Bully Prevention Summit
Des Moines, Iowa

MYTH:  Snuff and chewing tobacco are safe because there’s no smoke.

FACT:  Smokeless tobacco can cause mouth and throat cancer, high blood pressure and dental problems.  It can also lessen the senses of taste and smell and cause bad breath.
Source: relevancyinc.com

Great American Smokeout

The American Cancer Society is marking the 37th Great American Smokeout on November 15 by encouraging smokers to use the date to make a plan to quit, or to plan in advance and quit smoking that day. By doing so, smokers will be taking an important step towards a healthier life – one that can lead to reducing cancer risk.

Tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the US, yet more than 45 million Americans still smoke cigarettes. However, more than half of these smokers have attempted to quit for at least one day in the past year. As of 2010, there were also 13.2 million cigar smokers in the US, and 2.2 million who smoke tobacco in pipes.

Quitting is hard, but you can increase your chances of success with help. The American Cancer Society can tell you about the steps you can take to quit smoking and provide the resources and support that can increase your chances of quitting successfully. To learn about the available tools, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345.

Congratulations to our Young Ambassador Nominees 

The following were recognized in a special ceremony on October 15, 2012:

Roy Barker, Juliana Benitez, Madison Brown, Elizabeth Clay, Andrew Clay, Drake Coupland, Abigail Duenas, Kevin Greigg, Kaylee Henn, Michael James, Kathrine Johnson, Erykah Jones, John Paul Keane, Mariah Lanning, Fatyma Magana, Abby McCarthy, Alex Miller, Emily Mueller, Penny Nguyen, Ashley Olveda, Heavenleigh Pettiford, Bryce Reynolds, Noah Roerig, Shay Sargent, Brandon Schroder, Jackson Schroeder, Emersyn Sims, Taylor Strawn, Abbie Tornell, Evan Townley, Stephanie Warnstadt, Jarek Wittern.
 

A special thanks for the Red Ribbon Kick-Off Event!!
 

Special thanks to the Long Lines Family Rec Center and our sponsors: Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools, Blue Bunny, Briar Cliff University CHOICES, Briar Cliff University SIFE, Bully Prevention Community Coalition, Chesterman Co., Clear Channel Radio, Girl Scouts, Jackson Recovery Centers, Mercy Medial Center-REAP, Siouxland CARES, Siouxland Community Health Center, Siouxland District Health-Tobacco Preven­tion, Sioux City Bandits, Sioux City Elks Lodge 112, Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Comission, Sioux City Musketeers, Sioux City Parks and Recreation, Sioux City Police and Woodbury County Sheriff’s Department Officers/DARE, Sioux City Community Schools Pupil Services and Equity Department, Sioux City Young Ambassadors, and The Crittenton Center.

500 parents and students attended the Red Ribbon Kick-Off Event on Monday evening, October 15, at the Long Lines Family Rec Center.

 
DURING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, LET US GIVE THANKS
Let us give thanks for those striving for better emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Let us give thanks for family and friends.
Let us give thanks for individual and community efforts to eliminate the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and its related violence.
Let us give thanks to you for your continued support of a safe, healthy, and drug-free community!!

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org
parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  

About Siouxland CARES.

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,845 hours in 2011 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.
Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!

October’s Offline Happenings!

Drug Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October 3, 2012
Healthiest State Initiative 1K Walk

October 4, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

October 4, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Public Candidates’ Forum, Hosted by League of Women Voters of Sioux City
Iowa State Legislature House Districts 13 & 14 and Woodbury County
Western Iowa Tech Community College, 4647 Stone Avenue
Cargill Auditorium, Parking Lot #4, Entrance #14
Sioux City, Iowa

October 12,  7:45 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Protecting Families Fall Conference
Sioux City Convention Center, Sioux City, Iowa
Mercy Medical Educational Services Department, (712) 279-2507
Early Registration Fees: Received or postmarked on or before September 28: $50
Late Registration Fees: Received or postmarked after September 28: $60
Sponsored by:  Mercy Medical Center and Mercy Child Advocacy Center

October 15, 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Young Ambassador Recognition Event
Long Lines Family Rec Center, Sioux City, Iowa
 
October 15, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Red Ribbon Week and Character Counts Week Kick Off
Long Lines Family Rec Center, Sioux City, Iowa
If your agency would like a table to distribute materials and conduct an activity for children at this event, please e-mail us at cares@longlines.com

October 21 – 27, 2012
Character Counts Weeks

October 23 – 31, 2012
Red Ribbon Week

MYTH OR FACT?!

MYTH:  You have to use drugs for a long time before they really hurt you.

FACT:  Drugs can cause the brain to send the wrong signals to the body.  This can make a person stop breathing, have a heart attack or go into a coma.  This can happen the first time a drug is used.
Source: relevancyinc.com

Celebrate Red Ribbon Week!!
 

The Red Ribbon Campaign originated when Federal Agent Enrique Camarena was murdered by drug traffickers in 1985. He spent his life dedicated to making a visible effort to eradicate illegal drugs from our communities. In response to his death, communities across the country began wearing Red Ribbons as a symbol of the commitment to raise awareness of the killing and destruction caused by drugs in America. Red Ribbon Week is dedicated to teaching drug prevention in our school systems and community.

This year’s Red Ribbon Week will extend beyond the classrooms and out into our community. You will be seeing Red Ribbons on the windows of businesses and schools around the area.

Celebrate Red Ribbon Week and Character Counts Week with the entire family by attending an event on Monday, October 15, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the Long Lines Family Rec Center, 401 Gordon Drive, Sioux City, Iowa. Fun, games, and free food. Sponsored by Sioux City Elks Lodge, Siouxland CARES and the Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission.

The Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission will also be honoring 30 Young Ambassadors in grades 5-8 from 5:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. that night to thank them for their service to our community and their good citizenship.

YouTube Video Contest

The Briar Cliff University SIFE Team will once again coordinate a YouTube Video contest for middle and high school students in Sioux City. This year, as part of the beSomebody Campaign, videos should be focused on anti-bullying efforts. A winning video from each Sioux City school will be sent to the State of Iowa competition. School winners will get to attend the Bully Summit in Des Moines on November 27 and will be entered into the statewide contest and a chance to win $500. Locally, one middle school and one high school team (up to four students) has the chance to win $250.

Need help taping your video? Briar Cliff SIFE team members will be available to help at the Red Ribbon Week kickoff event on Monday, October 15, from
6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Long Lines Family Rec Center.

Videos are due to Briar Cliff University by October 21 at Midnight.

Go to www.siouxlandcares.org, beSomebody, for more information on the details of the YouTube Video Contest.
 

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact
 

90 High School Seniors were recently recognized by the Siouxland Chapter of the National Council on Youth Leadership for their outstanding contributions to our community.  Congratulations to these students from Sioux City East, North, West, Bishop Heelan, Lawton-Bronson, Dakota Valley, Elk Point-Jefferson, South Sioux City, Hinton, and Sergeant Bluff-Luton high schools.
 

 HomHHomeHoHom

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org
parentfurther.com

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  
 

Watch for the 2012 Clear Channel Radio/Siouxland CARES Parent Guide coming this October!

About Siouxland CARES.
 

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,845 hours in 2011 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.

Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!

September’s Offline Happenings!

National Recovery Month

September 3, 2012
Labor Day Holiday
Please don’t drink and drive!

September 6, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Siouxland CARES Advisory Board/SPF SIG Committee
Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, 101 Pierce Street
Sioux City, Iowa

Sunday, September 9, 7:00 p.m.
NCYL Youth Salute
Eppley Auditorium, Morningside College
Ninety high school seniors from the tri-state area will be honored for their service to our schools and community.  Open to the public.

September 14, 8:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Criminal Minds:  Working with Criminal & Addictive Thinking
Jackson Recovery Centers
Peter Waitt Education Center
800 5th Street, Sioux City, Iowa
(712) 234-2300

September 18, 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Infectious Disease Symposium 2012 – Infection Prevention and Long Term Care
Early Registration Fees:
Registrations received or postmarked on or before September 10: $89
Late Registration Fees: Registrations received or postmarked after September 10: $99
Free for Nursing Students and Medical Tech Students!
Sioux City Convention Center, 801 Fourth Street, Sioux City, Iowa
Phone: 712-279-2507 or schlessr@mercyhealth.com
Sponsored by Mercy Medical Center

SAVE THE DATE!

October 3, 2012
Healthiest State Initiative 1K Walk

October 12, 2012, 7:45 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Protecting Families Fall Conference
Sioux City Convention Center, Sioux City, Iowa
Mercy Medical Educational Services Department, (712) 279-2507
Early Registration Fees: Received or postmarked on or before September 28: $50
Late Registration Fees: Received or postmarked after September 28: $60
Sponsored by:  Mercy Medical Center and Mercy Child Advocacy Center

Monday, October 15, 5:00 p.m.
Young Ambassador Recognition Event
Long Lines Family Rec Center, Sioux City, Iowa
 
Monday, October 15, 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Red Ribbon Week and Character Counts Week Kick Off
Long Lines Family Rec Center, Sioux City, Iowa

 

MYTH OR FACT?!

MYTH:  You can stop using drugs at any time.
FACT:  Withdrawal sickness, believing you must have drugs, and being around people who use can make stopping drug use difficult.  But, there are people and programs that can help.   
Source: relevancyinc.com

The Current Mental Health and Substance Use Landscape – And The Promise of Recovery
 

Recovery Month (Recovery Month) (www.recoverymonth.gov) is a national observance that educates Americans on the fact that addiction treatment and mental health services can enable those with a mental and/or substance use disorder to live a healthy and rewarding life.  The observance’s main focus is to laud the gains made by those in recovery from these conditions, just as we would those who are managing other health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and heart disease.
 
Mental and/or substance use disorders and recovery from these disorders are prevalent in people of every ethnicity, age, gender, geographic region, and socioeconomic level. Approximately 45.9 million adults aged 18 or older had a mental illness in the past year, and about 11.4 million adults aged 18 or older had a serious mental illness.  Additionally, 22.1 million Americans aged 12 or older were classified with substance dependence or abuse (substance use disorders).  Of these people, 17.9 million met the criteria for alcohol dependence or abuse.
 
Mental illnesses include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and borderline personality disorder.  These illnesses can result in severe functional impairment, substantially interfering with or limiting one or more of a person’s major life activities.  They can also disrupt relationships with family members, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.
 
Substance use is another common problem.  People with substance use disorders have problems with misuse, dependence on, or addiction to alcohol, tobacco, and/or illicit or prescription drugs.  Substance use disorders include both physical and mental symptoms.  Similar to many other health conditions, genetics can play a role in the development of a substance use disorder.
 
The positive news is that millions of Americans are in recovery from mental and/or substance use disorders today.  SAMHSA defines recovery from mental and/or substance use disorders as a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.
 
SAMHSA supplements this definition with four major dimensions that support a life in recovery:
 
■ Health:  Overcome or manage one’s disease(s) or symptoms – and make informed, healthy choices that support physical and emotional well-being;
■ Home:  Have a stable and safe place to live;
■ Purpose:  Participate in meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school, volunteer opportunities, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and have the independence, income, and resources to participate in society; and
■ Community:  Enjoy relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.
 
People in long-term recovery can gain a sense of pride from helping those in need, and individuals beginning their road to recovery can learn from their experiences.  While each person experiences his or her own unique journey, for many people, recovery:
 
■ Emerges from hope;
■ Is person-driven;
■ Occurs via many pathways;
■ Is holistic;
■ Is supported by peers and allies;
■ Is supported by relationships and social networks;
■ Is culturally based and influenced;
■ Is supported by addressing trauma;
■ Involves individual, family, and community strengths and responsibilities; and
■ Is based on respect.
 
Various sources for above detailed in the National Recovery Month Guide, September 2012:  http://www.samhsa.gov.
  24/7 Treatment Referral: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

 

Watch for the 2012 Clear Channel Radio/Siouxland CARES Parent Guide coming this October!

CARE to Connect:
Like us on Facebook
Read Past Newsletters

CONTACT US:

cares@longlines.com

Siouxland Fact
 

Siouxland CARES maintains a list of 14 agencies that conduct Substance Abuse Evaluations.  Go to www.siouxlandcares.org, Resources and Links.
 

 HomHHomeHoHom

Bullying Information
Contact the Boys Town National Hot Line,
1-800-448-3000 or
the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline,
1-800-273-8255 or
A Youth Counseling Hotline,
1-800-855-201-2121
Additional Resources:
stopbullying.gov
educateiowa.gov
iowapridenetwork.org
iowasafeschools.org
oneiowa.org
reportbullyingiowa.com
sai-iowa.org/bullying
safeyouth.gov
standforthesilent.org
parentfurther.com
forouryouth.webs.com or 

beSomebody
Find out more about the beSomebody campaign by connecting to the Siouxland CARES website at www.siouxlandcares.org or beSomebody.us or Like us on beSomebody Facebook page.

Congratulations to the $25 Gas Card Winners from our 9th Grade Orientation Sessions

More than 230 parents of 9th graders filled out the Siouxland CARES survey at recent orientation sessions.  The following parents were the recipients of $25 gas cards donated by Siouxland CARES.
 

Bishop Heelan High School:
Joseph Danner
Michael McGowan
 
East High:
Tom Heeney
Galea Jacobson

North High:
Martha Diedranita
Julie Clayton

West High:
Trish Veatch
Shane Strom

Tri-State Curfew

The following curfew is now in effect in Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, and Woodbury County, Iowa, North Sioux City, South Dakota, South Sioux City, Nebraska, and Dakota County, Nebraska. Please enforce these times in your home.

 10:00 p.m. for minors under the age of 14
11:00 p.m. for minors ages 14 and 15
Midnight for minors ages 16 and 17  
 

About Siouxland CARES.

Siouxland CARES (Community-wide Awareness, Resources, Education and Support) About Substance Abuse is a community coalition comprised of 350 volunteers. Volunteers for Siouxland CARES (representing 12 community systems) and staff contributed 16,845 hours in 2011 to CARES programs and services. The mission of CARES is to improve the quality of life in Siouxland by eliminating the abuse of alcohol and other drugs and related violence.

The Anti-Drug is Communication.
Ask Who? Ask What? Ask Where?
It’s not pestering, it’s parenting!

Trustworthiness:   Think it.  Be it.
Respect:  Give it.  Get it.
Responsibility:  Take it.  Teach It.
Fairness:  Share it.  Practice it.
Caring:  Show it.  Receive it.
Citizenship:  Have it.  Honor it.

Make Your Character Count in Siouxland!!