The Redirecting Youth Through Empowerment (RYTE) program was invited by local Sikh temple, Akali Singh Sikh Society, to participate in their annual summer youth camp. During the week long camp, the RYTE program organized a 2 part educational series for over 50 youth. On August 13th, invited VPD guest, Cst. Montgomery, provided information on the different kinds of drugs and the harmful effects that young people may experience. Cst. Montgomery emphasized the importance for youth to make healthy choices as drug use not only affects the user but also the family, community and society as a whole.The second part of the series focused on providing youth with information on the realities of gang life. Rubina Mudhar highlighted the potential pathways into gang life and why teenage youth are targeted to join gangs. Various myths were explored and realities of engaging in gang activities were exposed. Youth also had the opportunity to share their suggestions for programming to deter youth from joining gangs. Aman, a youth participant, commented that “events like this should happen more often, especially for youth who don’t come to camp…the information provided was very eye opening and is a good way to educate kids about the truth of drug use and gang life.”
