This spring, the Coalition and Youth Action Board successfully hosted its annual student dialogue day called 'Choices.'  This year's event focused on athletes and well over 160 student athletes from public and private high schools in the Birmingham Bloomfield community attended, as well as school administrators, coaches, athletic directors and parents.

John Underwood, founder and CEO of the American Athletic Institute (www.AmericanAthletic Institute.org) spoke to the attendees about the consequences of substance abuse and their athletic performance.  He also spoke directly with school administrators and coaches about their role in the student athletes' lives and substance-free sports.  Click here to view John Underwood's presentation.   

As a result of this year's Choices, recognizing the high regard for athletics in our community and the amount of athlete specific information available in terms of substance abuse and the associated affects, the Coalition has applied for a federal grant to focus on the high school student athlete segment, which accounts for 50-60% of the student population, utilizing the athletic codes of conduct to support and promote healthy choices in terms of alcohol and other drugs.  Information, education and support would be provided to schools, students, parents, as well as the healthcare and faith-based sectors of our community. John Underwood commented about the probable success of the programs should the Coalition receive the grant by saying, "You have good people going at change in the right way.  You're basically saying 'help us help your kids!'"

There is a great article with lots of pictures from Choices 2009 written by Robert McClain in his publication www.StudentandAthlete.com.  To view it, click here.

The Coalition would like to thank the following for their participation and generosity - Choices would not have been a success without you!

St. Hugo of the Hills Church for the use of their facilities

Prevention Network

John Underwood

American Athletic Institute

Birmingham Public Schools

Bloomfield Hills Public Schools

The Michael & Ingrid Day Family

The Honorable Chuck Moss, State Representative