Make A Difference Minute: Operation Save Teens

On this Make A Difference Minute, we are highlighting “Operation Save Teens." Operation Save Teens began in 2001 in response to the rising number of youth apprehended by law enforcement as result of their alcohol and drug use. The educational program targets youth, parents, teachers, school administrators, and law enforcement officials and is based on the premise that the solution to the problem of youth substance use rests with education, enforcement, and rehabilitative services for youth in need.
During the program, audience members are informed about all of the risks and dangers associated with underage drinking and illicit drug use, with presentations featuring laws, statistics, and trends specific to the particular area. Presentations to youth also include heartfelt stories about the losses incurred by victims and their families while presentations for parents feature the various products and paraphernalia typically used by youth who drink or take drugs. Since its inception, the program has reached over 250,000 individuals throughout Alabama and the southeastern United States and received numerous expressions of support and appreciation from past audience members.