Funded by: United Way Central Island and Donations from the respective Elementary Schools in District #68.
Program History
The Think First Program initiated as a pilot project at the elementary school level (grade six) of School District 68 in 1995. The Think First Program continues to deliver a quality service and best practices approach in prevention programs. Our Society was contacted by John Barsby Secondary School, whereby a modified version of the program was presented.
Program Purpose
Crime prevention and social responsibility
Program Objectives
To encourage social responsibility and reduce involvement with the Criminal Justice System
To foster positive decision making
To encourage healthy lifestyles
To empower young people to think for themselves
Program Outline
Think First is an educational program offered to youth in School District #68. The program addresses issues related to positive lifestyle choices with specific reference to problems with substances and the Criminal Justice System. Think First encourages youth to think about their actions, to take responsibility and to understand how their behaviours affect themselves and others. This past year the Think First Program presented to 29 classes and a total of 779 students.
Admission Criteria
Attending the classroom where the program is presented
Objectives
Conduct open and honest interactive sessions with students
Provide information regarding the Youth Criminal Justice Act
Promote the importance of making the right choices by screened speakers sharing their personal life stories
Provide speakers with an opportunity to share their experiences in a positive manner in the community
Provide an opportunity for feedback
Challenge stereotypes of whom and what ‘a criminal’ is
Reduce the potential for unhealthy choices and criminal behaviour; and
Reinforce the importance of talking to someone and getting appropriate help with problems.
Program Methodology
information on the Criminal Justice System and Youth Criminal Justice Act
choices and consequences
informative, open, honest and interactive
Presentation
screened ex-offender(s) together with the Think First Coordinator talking about the realities of life on the street, serving a prison sentence, substance abuse and the costs associated with making negative choices
speakers stress the choices they have made, their struggle to believe they could change their lives and where they are now in the process of change
pictures of Nanaimo Correctional Centre and information on local resources
question period, feedback and evaluation
Outcomes
Reaction level and post-program evaluations consistently state that the youth feel the message has more impact and relevance coming from someone who has personal experience with the Criminal Justice System. The program currently utilizes one male and one female ex-offender speaker. This team approach enhances the program while challenging the stereotypical image that offenders are male.
Acknowledgements
We extend a special acknowledgement to the United Way Central Island for their continued support and financial contribution. Thanks to the Elementary Schools of District 68 (Nanaimo) and to the program speakers for their valuable support and commitment.