Jade Barth, Director

Anacortes American Letter to the Editor

Teens turn to drugs when their lives lack purpose.

We are so excited to see some coverage of the ever increasing drug problems plaguing our city.

Youth Dynamics began in Anacortes over 35 years ago and has been working with teens ever since. We have watched as the age that teens first try drugs has decreased as the number of teens trying them has increased and access seems to have increased as well.

Teens seem to be trying drugs in middle school and even grade school. We had one student tell us that he had used drugs in middle school, but had quit now that he was in high school.

We had another student this week tell us about his court date for breaking parole by failing his drug test. He was introduced to marijuana at age 6 by his parents. He has struggled with using ever since and feels hopeless to get away from it when his whole family uses.

It is deplorable that our community seems to be so lax about marijuana use and trafficking and scary that we aren't seeing more done to stop kids' access to marijuana, cocaine, meth and even prescription drugs.

At Anacortes YD, we are fighting the problem at the core--one teen at a time. Teens aren't turning to drug use just to be "cool" or because it's "fun," they are missing meaning and purpose in their lives.

Anacortes Youth Dynamics exists to invite and challenge Anacortes teens to a lifelong journey in relationship with Christ and His church. We are engaging teens in meaningful mentor relationships. We have drop-in hours Monday through Thursday from 2-5 p.m. and a variety of activity-based clubs. We are here to help.

If you have a teen whom you suspect is using drugs, please call 293-3509 or stop by 2410 J Ave, Anacortes. You can also learn more about Youth Dynamics at www.yd.org.