News

Columbus hosts DEFY camp for local youth

  • Published
  • By Airman Josh Harbin
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AFB, Miss. --   The annual Drug Education for Youth summer camp started Wednesday and will extend through June 27 at the Chapel Annex. 

DEFY is a free 10-month, two phased prevention program for the youth of Columbus AFB ages 9 to 12. 

The program consists of substance abuse education, to include drug and alcohol awareness, and reinforces positive social behavior, such as conflict resolution and building relationships. 

Originally initiated by the Secretary of the Navy in 1993, the program was later adopted and sponsored by the Air Force Medical Operations Agency in 1999. 

"It's beneficial for children in that it brings awareness to kids who are not generally exposed to illegal substances, like drugs, and it gives them a chance to ask questions openly," said Vanessa Brown, 14th Medical Operations Squadron and DEFY coordinator.
Mrs. Brown said the program consists primarily of a classroom environment where subjects range from gang resistance and drug abuse to building relationships with peers and developing leadership skills. 

The camp also offers a Presidential Fitness Challenge portion which stresses a healthy lifestyle and exercise. 

Phase one is the summer camp and phase two consists of monthly workshops in the fall which reinforces the concepts taught in phase one and teaches additional life skills such as improved study habits, nutrition, community service and cultural connections. 

"The program brings a sense of awareness to the kids and opens their eyes to what's out there and what's happening in the world," said Airman 1st Class Matthew Crouch, a DEFY volunteer and member of the 14th Medical Operations Squadron. 

Children are also offered the opportunity to go on educational fieldtrips free of charge. 

According to Mrs. Brown, DEFY once hosted a trip to a prison where children spoke to inmates regarding the circumstances which led to their imprisonment and taught them valuable lessons for the future.