Nassau County, NY - September 23, 2015 - Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano today announced a Drug Abuse Prevention Project to promote awareness of the dangers of substance abuse and risk taking behaviors. The 3rd Annual Drug Alternatives’ Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest is once again open to high school students throughout Nassau County as part of National Red Ribbon Awareness Campaign activities. This year’s theme, “Respect Yourself, Be Drug Free!” was chosen to mobilize communities to educate youth and encourage participation in drug prevention activities.
County Executive stated, “My administration is combatting drug abuse through education, awareness, enforcement and intervention. I call on high school principals, health teachers, film teachers, and social workers to encourage their students to enter the contest and help us educate today’s young people on the dangers of drug abuse and addiction.”
The contest requires students to create a 30 second PSA that suggests positive alternatives to drug use and abuse. Schools or school districts may submit multiple entries, created either by an individual or a group of students. The PSA should demonstrate, in video format, a message of hope, show resources available for help, and also show positive alternatives to risk taking behaviors often associated with one of the four following issues: Bullying, Depression, Stigma, and Destructive Decisions. Prizes will be awarded to the winning entry, in each of 4 categories as outlined below.
1. Bullying: Find ways to cope and deal with the stress and adversity of being bullied; Step up and do the right thing if someone you know is being bullied or is doing the bullying.
2. Depression: Recognize the signs of depression. Encourage classmates to seek help if they feel sad, lonely and, or hopeless.
3. Stigma: Eliminate social stigma and discrimination. Let friends know that there is no shame in experiencing a mental health issue or a substance use problem.
4. Destructive Decisions: What positive actions can we take instead of engaging in risk-taking behaviors?
All PSA entries become the property of Nassau County and may be reproduced for publication. Entries may be submitted on a CD, DVD or sent electronically. The deadline for submission is Friday, March 11, 2016. An awards ceremony will be held for the winning students on Thursday, April 7, 2016 in the Ceremonial Chambers of the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola at 6:30 p.m. Each winning entry will receive a prize, countywide recognition, and be awarded the opportunity to have their PSA showcased at Nassau County events.
To participate in the contest, or for more information, please contact Paula Pontrelli at 516-227-7038 or e-mail Paula here.