Underwood's presentation draws many during recent three-day stay
<p>Underwood's message of alcohol and drug abuse by young people attracts growds wherever he goes.</p>
John Underwood, founder, researcher and trainer for the American Athletic Institute, kicked off his three-day stay in Lincoln County by presenting to a packed house of youth and community leaders Wednesday, May 9, at the Double J Bed and Breakfast in Troy.
Hosted by Lincoln County’s Unite for Youth Coalition and Flathead Valley Chemical Dependency Clinic, the presentation built on current efforts across the county aimed at reducing and preventing underage drinking and substance use. John speaks to communities around the country about the critical years between age 12 and 21, when the young brain is growing and developing its adult potential.
Underwood described how using alcohol and marijuana during this time negatively effects brain development and how the resulting damage caused by underage drinking and drug use diminishes athletic and academic performance.
“Without a doubt, alcohol prevents kids from reaching their potential, from doing or being their best,” he said.
Flathead Valley Chemical Dependency Prevention Specialist Vel Shaver adds, “John encourages youth and adults alike to find something they are passionate about and not let anything, especially drugs and alcohol, get in the way of those goals.”
Underwood’s straight-forward style, paired with indisputable evidence of the damage done when youth choose to drink alcohol and use marijuana at an early age, serves to both inform and motivate community members to advocate for implementation of prevention strategies, Shaver said.
“He is passionate about communities like ours working together to do what is in the best interest of our kids,” said Mel Schrader, Vice-President of Lincoln County’s Unite for Youth Coalition.
“We are really fortunate to have him here – his message is right on and the timing of his visit was perfect. There is growing support from all sectors of the Lincoln County community for doing what it takes to create real changes in our underage drinking culture.”