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The Defy program: Leading the way for today’s youth

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Mindy Bloem
  • 43rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  When I first planned to write a wrap-up article for the Drug Education For Youth program, I decided to write it in typical news-style fashion; however, having been personally involved in this year-long program, I couldn't just wrap it up without sharing my own personal experiences. 

To be honest, the idea to become a mentor for the DEFY program was not my own. Someone who plays a leadership role in my job suggested I do it. I was a little hesitant at first because I wasn't sure if it would conflict with my other job duties, but when my office assured me they would work with me, I felt at peace with the decision.
Before becoming a mentor, I had to fill out an extensive application and go through a background check. I remember thinking that if I were a parent, it would put my mind at ease to know the mentors had been thoroughly screened before beginning the program.
DEFY essentially consists of two phases. The first phase began in June of 2008 with a two-week introduction into the program. The first week is strictly for the mentors to get organized, get to know one another and learn all the ins-and-outs of the program. 

On the first day of training, I wasn't sure what to expect. Would I have to pinch myself to stay awake through some boring power point slides? Would the three cups of coffee I drank that morning be enough to power me through? Fortunately, none of my fears were realized. The atmosphere was very relaxed. Almost immediately, we played games that helped us "break the ice" and get to know each other a little better. I didn't know it then, but the people in that room would end up being some of my favorite people here at Pope. 
After getting to know one another, we started constructing our lesson plans and sharing our ideas on how to organize the coming week. The training week was definitely crucial in contributing to the success of the coming camp week. 

I can still remember standing near our tables before the official start of camp, waiting for the kids to stream in through the double doors at the Pope Elementary School. During the day, we would meet there as we taught the kids important lessons about staying drug free, building self-esteem, not caving into peer pressure and many other life-building lessons that would be too numerous to count but are no less important. All of these lessons seemed to resonate with the campers because they were enhanced by the mentors who were able to teach, "Do as I do, not as I say." Too often, children don't see people in their lives who lead by example, and I think that is one thing that is so great about this program. Not only does it give back to the campers who are able to interact with people they would want to emulate, but the mentors gain so much from the exchange as well. 

At night, we would take the campers to Smith Lake where they slept in cabins at the camp site. The children were under constant supervision. While they slept, the mentors (in groups of three to four) would take turns sitting in a tent that was in full view of the campers' cabins. All the mentors will tell you that at the week's end, we were exhausted, but it was a good tired -- a rewarding tired. 

After those two weeks were over and the phase one portion was completed, it was time to begin the phase two portion. Phase two reinforces what the campers learn in phase one. During phase two, the campers and mentors meet one Saturday a month for a year.
 
They arrive in the morning where they are taught a lesson, and after that attend some type of field trip designated for that day. Because they are not only learning valuable life lessons with the mentors but are also spending time with them doing fun-filled activities, It provides a perfect avenue for them to assess what's right and wrong on their road to maturity. I am not a parent yet, but I can honestly say that this program is one of the best the Air Force has in place for its youth. I would enroll my child in a heartbeat. With all the corrupting influences being hoisted upon them by society on a consistent basis, this program beautifully counters those negative influences with positive ones. 

During graduation on June 6th, I looked around the room at all the children and felt so proud of each and every one of them. I also felt so grateful to have been able to have a part in their development as productive members to society. What are we here for, if not to touch the lives of others? 

I know Tracy DeVeault, the program coordinator, has spaces available for more children to join the program. I would encourage any parent who has a child, ages 9 through 12 years old, to enroll their child in the program. For more information about the DEFY program, call (910) 394-1182.