Montana State Elks Association Drug Awarneness Program

Why did you get involved with the Elks Drug Awareness Program?

Jack Ponzo
Chair, Arizona Elks Drug Awareness Program

For me, joining the Elks Drug Awareness Program is all about saving our children, and becoming a better, drug free America.  If we have no demand for illegal and illicit drugs in our country, drug cartels and the suffering they bring to all countries would not exist.  If we teach our kids when they are young, the dangers and consequences of drug abuse, then we reduce the demand.  We stop the human carnage drug abuse brings to our society and we make our world a safer, happier place in which to live.  The Elks Drug Awareness Program is the best vehicle I know.

Maria Sanchez                                                                                                                              Chair, New Mexico Elks Drug Awareness Program

In my previous law enforcement career, my specialty and interest, was crimes against children. Today, I continue that passion, as an investigator, with Children Protective Services. The Elks DAP allows me to bring education, prevention and advocacy not only to our youth, but to parents and community members. It offers me the opportunity to engage with the youth in providing them resources for a safe environment, where they can thrive, learn, and succeed without drugs. Therefore, I got involved with the Elks Drug Awareness Program, to create and develop a more positive environment with our youth. 

Dave Provan                                                                                                                                        Chair, California & Hawaii Elks Drug Awareness Program

I first became interested and involved with the DAP when an afternoon with my grandkids turned into a serious discussion of drug abuse at their high school.  They told me that just about any drug from marijuana to cocaine was available at their school.   I was appalled, but went to my Lodge's Drug Awareness Chairman and asked for literature on various drugs, which I gave to my grandkids.  I started attending Ray Lazano's seminars when they were local.  I subscribed to the DEA Bulletins, which I now pass on to my District Chairmen.  I was fortunate to be named CHEA Vice Chairman for Drug Awareness 3 years ago and progressed to State Chairman this past year.  Drug Awareness has become a passion with me and I intend to continue with that passion when my term is concluded.

Tammy Lehn                                                                                                                                          Chair, Minnesota Elks Drug Awareness Program

I believe the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.  The Elks Drug Awareness Program reaches out to adults and youth of all ages and backgrounds. Through our Lodges in our communities across the country, Elks work to combat substance abuse. Elroy the Elk, the program’s mascot, reminds young kids that hugs are better than drugs!!  With the Drug Awareness Program, touching many people, I hope to help many with some information and resources.

Jerry Brien                                                                                                                                              Co-Chair, Wisconsin Elks Drug Awareness Program                                                                    President, Wisconsin Elks Association

Where in the Elks can we have the greatest impact on kids?  I was an educator, and the answer was noticeably clear to me that the Elks Drug Awareness Program would provide me the tools to help our youth. I wanted to be able to let our youth know they did not have to succumb to the dangers and pressure of drugs. Our youth would not be alone as Elks all over the country would work to provide support to engage in positive activities.  The Elks provided tools as well to help parents deal with their youth in their family.  I also knew that if the Elks helped make a difference in one youth; then the Elks Drug Awareness Program was the place for me.  The battle is ongoing, but I have the greatest army of Elks behind me helping our youth.