Since it’s inception in 1996, thousands of at-risk and troubled youths have participated in the Project Reality Program at LMHS. Working with the Allen and Mercer County Juvenile Courts, between 20 and 40 teens and their parents attend each month. In addition, the Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Program (UMADAOP) has recently started sending attendees.
According to Ellie Moore, LMHS EMS coordinator, feels the program is a great benefit to the community. “Over the years we have made a big impact on these kids. Many of them then get involved doing good things for their schools and community,” she said. In fact, sometimes participants return to share their own stories with the group.
The two-hour evening program consists of several components. Individuals tell their stories of trauma accidents, how drugs and alcohol ruined their lives or how crime has sidelined their aspirations. Members of law enforcement, nurses, EMTs and chaplains also speak. A video featuring a real-life scenario in which a teenager is killed in a drunk driving accident is also shown to the group.
The group then tours ICU and the morgue and learns about the autopsy process. Several departments at LMHS are involved and make the program happen on a monthly basis. In addition Judge Kinworthy and the juvenile court were instrumental in helping to start, support and maintain the program.
“We truly believe we are making a difference and working with this program has been very rewarding for us,” said Moore.
For more information about Project Reality, call 419.226.5178.
