What can you expect from the SHAE Project Presentations?
“People don’t care how much you know… until they know how much you care”. Popular saying, especially true with teens.
The SHAE Project is all about conversations.
Eye to eye, building relationships.
Deb usually has about 45 minutes to make an impression on each young person’s life. That is why this project is most effective in a classroom setting, not big auditorium style.
Deb shares right away that she is “just a Mom”, a Mom who has a deep desire to share the truth with them. Not a certified teacher, not a drug counselor but, a very informed, dedicated motivational speaker. She discusses with them what is happening with legal substance use and how they can be informed, help others and stay safe. The students are encouraged to help develop the SHAE Project with Deb, by giving her ideas and adding to the list of things they are concerned about. They work together, teens learn more because they are a huge part of the solutions.
Deb sprinkles into the presentations, parts of her own personal story. She talks about the difficulties that being raised in an alcoholic home caused and her teenage misuse of substances. Deb reinforces positive life choices using colorful examples which provide youth friendly discussions.
They are encouraged to discover what brings them a feeling of usefulness and joy in life. Community involvement, activities, etc… Students find that their true strength lies within them and that substance use compromises that strength.
The SHAE Project teaches how powerful and dangerous some drugs can become and no problems are made better by substance use. The project encourages youth to seek assistance; help is available for teens who may find themselves, or those they care about in trouble with substance abuse.
Students behave well during the presentations. Deb treats them with respect and keeps things moving well. They are interested in the subject as the youth admire her humble strength and deep honesty.
Kids quickly understand that she is speaking from experience, seeking to reach them wherever they are.
Schools and neighborhoods differ. Experience with substance use is more prevalent in some areas and not as great in other areas.
She speaks primarily on legal substances, but will address some other substances if the staff feels it is appropriate.
Deb will cater to the audience she is speaking to.
Administrators and Teachers express a deep gratitude for the SHAE Project.
The partnership provides the school district curriculum an added edge and gives support to staff that may not be “street wise”.
The teacher and parent version of this program are similar in format; however the content details are much more deeply discussed.
The SHAE Project recommends booking a parent/teacher presentation along with your school’s student class session bookings.