Hendry County Florida...Hendry County has recently seen a decrease in the rates of alcohol-related...

Prepared by: The Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida, Inc.

2013

Hendry County Florida Drug and Alcohol Assessment

Drug-Free Hendry County

Youth Ages 12 - 20

D r u g - F r e e H e n d r y C o u n t y – D r u g a n d A l c o h o l A s s e s s m e n t

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................ 4

Community Description...................................................................................................................... 7

Crime Indicators ................................................................................................................................. 8

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crashes ................................................................................... 8

Drug and Alcohol-related Arrest Data ................................................................................... 10

Department of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Referrals .......................................................... 11

Emergency Department Visits .......................................................................................................... 13

Smoking During Pregnancy ............................................................................................................... 14

Youth Surveys .................................................................................................................................. 15

Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (FYSAS) ..................................................................... 15

Florida Youth Tobacco Survey (FYTS) .................................................................................... 24

Student Social Norms Survey ................................................................................................ 27

Community Survey ........................................................................................................................... 35

Interviews with Adults in the Community ......................................................................................... 43

Appendices: Appendix A: Community Survey Questions .................................................................................. 48 Appendix B: Key Informant Interview Guide ................................................................................. 54 Appendix C: Community Leaders Interviewed .............................................................................. 56


Executive Summary

In an effort to decrease drug and alcohol abuse by the youth of Hendry County, a collaborative partnership was formed between the Hendry County Health Department and the Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida, Inc. (HPC) for the purpose of conducting a community drug and alcohol assessment for use by the Hendry County Health Department, Drug Free Hendry County, and other community partners.

HPC reviewed numerous data sources and received feedback from members of the community through surveys and interviews. The drug and alcohol assessment consists of crime indicators, emergency department data, and youth survey results that will be used to identify areas where targeted interventions and policy changes may have the greatest impact.

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crashes

Hendry County has recently seen a decrease in the rates of alcohol-related crashes in the county (94.2 per 100,000 for 2009-2011).

The rate of injuries from alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes in Hendry County has increased slightly over the last several years, while the rate of deaths from alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes has decreased over time.

Drug and Alcohol-related Arrest Data

Arrests in Hendry County for Driving Under the Influence have been on the decline over the last twelve years. Drug arrests have fluctuated, but have seen a recent increase. Arrests from liquor law violations have seen a steady decrease since 2006.

Department of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Referrals

The number of Hendry County youth being referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice for misdemeanor-level alcohol offenses has consistently been small, and the number of youth being referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice for drug-related offenses has been on the decline.

Emergency Department Visits

Hendry County youth (ages 0-17) have had fairly low number of alcohol/drug-related emergency department visits, with the most recent instances being of moderate severity.

Smoking During Pregnancy

Hendry County’s rates of live births to mothers who smoked during pregnancy have fluctuated within a small margin, but have remained lower than for the state of Florida as a whole.


Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey

According to the 2012 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey, 24.7 percent of Hendry County students reported having used alcohol in the past 30 days.

The percentage of students reporting cigarette use over the past 30 days in Hendry County was nearly identical to the Florida average (6.5% Hendry vs. 6.6% State).

11.5 percent of Hendry County students reported having used marijuana in the past 30 days. Beyond the more widely abused substances (alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana), high school

students in Hendry County abuse prescription pain relievers most frequently (8.9% of Hendry County high school students reported having ever abused prescription pain relievers).

Middle school students abuse inhalants most frequently, even more than they do marijuana (11.8% of Hendry County middle school students reported having ever used inhalants).

Over the last eight years, those Hendry County students reporting that they have ever used alcohol has decreased.

When assessing Protective Factors, Hendry County high school students reported the lowest rates of protection for the Family Rewards for Prosocial Involvement (51%) and School Rewards for Prosocial Involvement (52%) scales.

Middle school students reported the lowest rates of protection for the School Opportunities for Prosocial Involvement (42%) and Family Rewards for Prosocial Involvement (46%) scales.

When assessing Risk Factors, Hendry County high school students reported the highest rates of risk for the Community Disorganization (62%) and Transitions and Mobility (55%) scales.

Middle school students also reported the highest rates of risk for the Community Disorganization (65%) and Transitions and Mobility (54%) scales.

Florida Youth Tobacco Survey

According to the Florida Youth Tobacco Survey, cigarette smoking is decreasing by the youth of Hendry County.

61.0 percent of Hendry County middle school students reported that they have never smoked a cigarette and do not intend to, even if offered one by a friend. 47.7 percent of high school students reported the same.

Student Social Norms Survey

According to the Student Social Norm Survey, perception of high school alcohol use was it its lowest rate for the 2012-2013 school year, while the percentage of high school students who reported having at least one drink of alcohol during the past 30 days has remained fairly consistent.

Actual alcohol usage for the 2012-2013 school year for Hendry County middle school students was at its lowest (16%) and the perception of alcohol use was at its lowest as well (50%).

For the 2012-2013 school year, 48 percent of Hendry County high school students and 74 percent of middle school students stated that they have never used alcohol.


Hendry County high school students reported rates of smoking cigarettes for the 2012-2013 school year that were similar to recent years. The perception of cigarette use, however, is at its lowest. Middle school students in Hendry County are reporting much lower rates of having smoked cigarettes than in years past.

For the 2012-2013 school year, 73 percent of Hendry County high school students and 87 percent of middle school students stated that they have never smoked cigarettes.

For the 2012-2013 school year, 64 percent of Hendry County high school students and 86 percent of middle school students stated that they have never used marijuana.

Community Survey

The largest number of respondents felt that MANY youth (roughly 26%-50%) are abusing alcohol and cigarettes. The largest number of respondents felt that SOME youth (roughly 11%-25%) are abusing smokeless tobacco, marijuana, and depressants.

Cigarettes and smokeless tobacco were felt by the largest number of respondents to be used most frequently of all the substances.

Over 15 percent of those surveyed responded that there is community approval of high school students attending parties where there is no parental supervision. An overwhelming majority responded that the community disapproves or strongly disapproves of drinking and driving.

The majority of adults surveyed felt that alcohol and drugs are easily attained in Hendry County. Survey respondents suggested that the best ways to communicate anti-substance abuse

messages were through parents, through schools, and on Facebook. The most selected type of message to be communicated was that a police record can hurt future opportunities.

When asked what other ways Hendry County should work to prevent substance abuse, most respondents selected the responses for campaigns aimed at parents as well as more recreational facilities for the youth.

Interviews with Adults in the Community

The Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida interviewed twelve Hendry County community members to gain insight into the substance abuse attitudes and activities among the youth of Hendry County.

Many of the adults interviewed felt that the majority of the substance abuse problem is alcohol. Marijuana was felt to be the next most frequently abused substance. Many suggested that cigarettes are being used much less frequently by the youth than in the

past. Prescription drug abuse by the youth of Hendry County was felt by many of those interviewed to

be a big problem that is on the rise. Community members suggested that youth are obtaining these substances from older friends,

older siblings/other older family members, parents, they steal alcohol and prescription drugs from their own homes, or they buy it themselves from area stores that do not follow age restrictions on legal substances.


About half of those interviewed were aware of parties where adults provided alcohol for the youth to consume. Prom parties and quinceñeras were mentioned as regular instances of parents allowing youth to drink alcohol.

Interviewees described a laid-back attitude towards alcohol use by the youth of the county. The attitude in the community towards tobacco use was felt to be that not many youth are using it, so there isn’t much concern. Marijuana use was felt by half of interviewees to be frowned upon, and by the other half to be more acceptable, particularly as it is becoming legal in many states.

When asked why youth choose to abuse these substances, most interviewees felt it was due to boredom. Suggestions to combat this issue included opening a skating rink, a pizza place, a movie theater, and/or a bowling alley.

All of the community members interviewed felt that strong, visual messages were the most effective for youth. When asked who should be delivering these messages, the majority felt that this role should fall upon the parents.


Community Description

The demographic, social and economic characteristics of a community can strongly influence the community’s health status and related service needs. These indicators should be a primary consideration when designing and developing any alcohol, tobacco and other drug reduction programs within the region. This section provides a brief overview of some of the characteristics and trends that make Hendry County unique.

Hendry County is a rural county located in southwest Florida. LaBelle is the county seat. Clewiston is the largest and most populous incorporated area. Hendry County is 1,189.79 square miles in area; about 3 percent of that area is covered by water. The county has a population density of about 34 persons per square mile compared to a state average of 357 persons per square mile. As of 2011, the population was 38,871 with 81.2 percent White, 14.4 percent Black, and 4.4 percent other races. Ethnicity in Florida is broken out separately from race. About 50 percent of the residents of Hendry County identify as Hispanic (49.4%); this is significantly higher than the state average (22.8%). The vast majority of the people in Hendry County who identify as Hispanic identify as white. There are significantly more men than women in Hendry County. Fifty-four percent of the residents of Hendry County are male while Forty-six percent are female. Approximately thirty-seven percent of the population in Hendry is under the age of 25 and approximately twelve percent are 65 or older.

The target population of this study is youth ages twelve to twenty, which accounted for 13.5 percent of the 2011 population. For this age range, 47.1 percent were female and 52.9 percent were male. Fifty-eight percent of youth ages twelve to twenty indicated that they were Hispanic.

The percent of people living under the poverty level in Hendry County is significantly higher than the state as a whole according to 2011 data (29.6% Hendry vs. 17.0% State). Unfortunately, that also holds true for the percent of children 0-17 years of age who are under the poverty level; that rate is 39.8 percent for Hendry County compared to 25.1 percent for the state.


Crime Indicators

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crashes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol-related motor vehicles crashes were responsible for over 10,000 deaths nationwide in 2010. Hendry County has recently seen a decrease in the rates of alcohol-related crashes in the county, but the numbers are still troubling.

Hendry County Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crashes 3-Year Rate per 100,000

Hendry State 2004-06 2005-07 2006-08 2007-09 2008-10 2009-11 2009-11

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crashes 146.4 153.5 142.8 129.6 100.7 94.2 97.2

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crash Injuries 113.9 119.8 114.6 109.1 96.5 105.9 67.1

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crash Deaths 22.8 19.0 23.1 17.9 16.8 9.2 4.8

Sources: FDLE Uniform Crime Report, DHSMV “Traffic Crash Facts”, Florida Office of Vital Statistics

In Hendry County, alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes have been on the decline, and have recently fallen slightly below the State average. The most recent 3-year rate per 100,000 residents was 94.2 compared to 97.2 for Florida as a whole.

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

2004-06 2005-07 2006-08 2007-09 2008-10 2009-11

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crashes 3-Year Rate per 100,000

Hendry

State


Injuries from alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes in Hendry County have increased slightly over the last several years, and have remained consistently above the State rates.

Deaths due to alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes are of the highest concern. Rates per 100,000 in Hendry County for alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes have remained consistently higher than the State rates, although they have seen a considerable decrease over time.

Please note that due to the small size of the population in Hendry County, a small number of deaths can cause a large variance in the death rate. For example, in 2011 there were a total of three alcohol-related motor vehicle crash deaths.

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

2004-06 2005-07 2006-08 2007-09 2008-10 2009-11

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crash Injuries 3-Year Rate per 100,000

Hendry

State

0

5

10

15

20

25

2004-06 2005-07 2006-08 2007-09 2008-10 2009-11

Alcohol-related Motor Vehicle Crash Deaths 3-Year Rate per 100,000

Hendry

State


Drug and Alcohol-related Arrest Data

Drug and alcohol-related crimes are unfortunately common in Hendry County. The following table shows the total arrests made in Hendry County for DUIs, drug crimes, and liquor law violations since 2000.

Uniform Crime Report Arrest Data Total Arrests in Hendry County, 2000-2012

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

DUI arrests 361 318 377 281 174 181 204 215 215 156 171 147 166

Drug arrests 205 244 208 295 293 417 524 298 335 260 301 316 365

Liquor law violations* 16 56 104 138 22 107 118 84 60 61 57 24 25 Source: Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Crime in Florida, Annual Florida uniform crime report [Computer program]. Tallahassee, FL: FDLE.

*The violation of laws or ordinances prohibiting: the manufacture, sale, transporting, furnishing, possessing of intoxicating liquor; maintaining unlawful drinking places; bootlegging; operating a still; furnishing liquor to a minor or intemperate person; using a vehicle for illegal transportation of liquor; drinking on a train or public conveyance; and all attempts to commit any of the aforementioned. (Drunkenness and driving under the influence are not included in this definition.)

Arrests in Hendry County for Driving Under the Influence have been on the decline over the last twelve years. Drug arrests have fluctuated, but have seen an increase since 2009. Arrests from liquor law violations, which include providing liquor to a minor, rose considerably at the beginning of the century, but have seen a steady decrease since 2006.

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

Total Arrests in Hendry County, 2000 - 2012

DUI arrests

Drug arrests

Liquor law violations


Department of Juvenile Justice Delinquency Referrals

When it comes to the youth of Hendry County, the number of youths referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice for alcohol-related offenses has fluctuated within a fairly thin margin, but there has been a noticeable decline in the number of youths referred for drug-related offenses. The following data is separated by fiscal year.

Source: Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. 2011-2012 Delinquency Profile [Computer program]. The number of Hendry County youth being referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice for misdemeanor-level alcohol offenses has consistently been small, between two and four. The number of referrals has also been rather low, between three and eight. (Some of the youth were responsible for multiple referrals.) The alcohol-related referrals for the 2011-2012 fiscal year accounted for only 1.8 percent of all misdemeanor referrals that year in Hendry County.

0

2

4

6

8

2007-20082008-2009

2009-20102010-2011

2011-2012

4 3

2 4

2

6 5

3

8

3

Alcohol Offense (Misdemeanor) Referrals Received in Hendry County by the Department of Juvenile Justice

Number of Youth

Number of Referrals


Source: Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. 2011-2012 Delinquency Profile [Computer program].

As noted previously, the number of Hendry County youth being referred to the Department of Juvenile Justice for drug-related offenses has been on the decline. In the 2007-2008 fiscal year there were 31 referrals for 22 Hendry County youth. As of the 2011-2012 fiscal year these numbers had dropped to 19 referrals for 10 youth, which accounted for 11.4 percent of the total misdemeanor referrals that year.

Source: Florida Department of Juvenile Justice. 2011-2012 Delinquency Profile [Computer program].

Felony drug referrals have shown a similar trend. The 2008-2009 fiscal year had a high of 17 felony drug referrals for 14 Hendry County youth. During the 2011-2012 fiscal year the number of referrals for felony drug offenses had dropped to 6 referrals for 2 Hendry County youth. These 6 referrals accounted for 8.5 percent of the total felony referrals for the 2011-2012 fiscal year.

0

10

20

30

40

2007-2008 2008-20092009-2010

2010-20112011-2012

22

16 21 16

10

31 29

26 21

19

Drug Misdemeanor Referrals Received in Hendry County by the Department of Juvenile Justice

Number of Youth

Number of Referrals

0

5

10

15

20

2007-2008 2008-20092009-2010

2010-20112011-2012

9 14

11

7

2

9

17

12 10

6

Drug Felony Referrals Received in Hendry County by the Department of Juvenile Justice

Number of Youth

Number of Referrals


Emergency Department Visits

In 2011, roughly 2.5 million Emergency Department visits nationwide were the result of medical emergencies involving drug misuse or abuse, according to the Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN). The table below represents the total number of emergency department visits each year by the youth of Hendry County for alcohol and/or drug-related health diagnoses.

Emergency Department Visits with Alcohol/Drug-Related Health Principal Diagnoses Hendry County Residents (ages 0 – 17) to Any Hospital

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Minor Severity 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Low/Moderate Severity 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 Moderate Severity 0 0 2 2 2 0 3 High Severity/Non-immediate* 1 2 5 0 2 0 0 High Severity/Immediate** 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Total 6 2 7 2 5 0 3

Source: Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) Emergency Department (ED) Data * Usually, the presenting problem(s) are of high severity, and require urgent evaluation by the physician but do not pose an immediate significant threat to life or physiologic function. ** Usually, the presenting problem(s) are of high severity and pose an immediate significant threat to life or physiologic function. The numbers for Hendry County youth, ages 0 – 17, appear relatively low, even considering the small size of the population. However, any medical emergency resulting from drugs and/or alcohol should be considered one too many.


Smoking During Pregnancy

Using and abusing alcohol, tobacco, and drugs is always risky, but the dangers are multiplied when the user is pregnant. Smoking while pregnant will:

Lower the amount of oxygen available to the growing baby, which can lead to stillbirth, premature delivery, and low birth weight.

Increase the baby's heart rate and increase the baby’s risk of having a heart defect. Increase the baby's risk of developing respiratory problems, such as asthma or bronchitis.

Source: Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Vital Statistics

The youth of Hendry County (ages 12 – 20) have lower percentages of live births to mothers who smoked during pregnancy than for the state of Florida as a whole, however the numbers are still concerning. Additionally, Florida’s numbers have been declining, from a 3-year high of 15.4 percent in 1991-1993 down to 8.1 percent as of 2010-2012. Hendry County’s rates, unfortunately, have fluctuated within a smaller margin: a high of 10.0 percent in 1991-1993, a low of 5.6 percent in 2009-2011, and the most recent 3-year rate of 7.3 percent in 2010-2012.

02468

1012141618

Percent of Live Births to Hendry County Mothers Who Smoked During Pregnancy, Ages 12-20, 3-Year Rolling Rates

Hendry

State


Youth Surveys

Youth in Hendry County complete three surveys that provide documentation for Drug Free Hendry County and other related programs. The first is the Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (FYSAS) that is administered at a county-level biannually. The second is the Florida Youth Tobacco Survey (FYTS) that is administered biannually on opposite years. The third is the Student Social Norms Survey that is administered annually.

The results from the Student Social Norms Survey are received within one month of survey administration, providing the most current data. The FYSAS covers other areas while the FYTS is in-depth for tobacco use and both help to confirm the Student Social Norms Survey data.

Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (FYSAS)

The Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (FYSAS) is a collaborative effort between the Florida departments of Health, Education, Children and Families, Juvenile Justice, and the Governor's Office of Drug Control. It is based on the "Communities That Care" survey, which measures the prevalence and frequency of drug use, the prevalence and frequency of other antisocial behaviors, and the degree to which risk and protective factors exist that can predict alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, delinquency, gang involvement and other problem behaviors in adolescents.

The FYSAS was administered to 70,859 students in grades 6 through 12 in February and March of 2012. Across Florida, 417 middle schools and 329 high schools administered the surveys. In Hendry County, 1,028 students completed the survey (485 middle school students; 543 high school students).

The survey has been administered annually since 2000, making the 2012 FYSAS the thirteenth set of data. (Odd-numbered years provide state-level data only, while even-numbered years include regional and county-level data.)


Past-30-Day Alcohol Use Hendry County 2004 – 2012 and Florida Statewide 2012

Source: Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (2012), Florida Department of Children and Families

Alcohol use in the past 30 days was 24.7 percent for Hendry County students, which was roughly the same as the state average of 24.6 percent. 2012 had the lowest percentage of Hendry County students reporting that they had used alcohol in the past 30 days in the years surveyed. Males and females reported having used alcohol in similar rates (24.4% males vs. 25.0% females).

05

101520253035404550

Middle School High School Overall

County 2004 County 2006 County 2008 County 2010 County 2012 Florida 2012


Past-30-Day Cigarette Use Hendry County 2004 – 2012 and Florida Statewide 2012

Source: Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (2012), Florida Department of Children and Families

Similarly, the percentage of students reporting cigarette use over the past 30 days in Hendry County was nearly identical to the Florida average (6.5% Hendry vs. 6.6% State). This is lower for Hendry County than past years, with a high of 12.7 percent in 2004. High school students have higher rates of cigarette use than middle school students of cigarette use (8.7% high school students vs. 3.7% middle school students). Males are more likely to report cigarette use than females (8.5% males vs. 5.0% females).

02468

101214161820




Past-30-Day Marijuana Use Hendry County 2004 – 2012 and Florida Statewide 2012

Source: Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (2012), Florida Department of Children and Families Past-30-day marijuana use for Hendry County students was slightly lower than for the state as a whole (11.5% Hendry vs. 12.4% State). The overall percentage of Hendry County students who have reported marijuana use has remained fairly consistent since 2002, from a low of 8.6 percent in 2008 to a high of 11.5 percent in 2012. High school students surveyed were more than twice as likely to have used marijuana as middle school students.

02468

101214161820




Percentages of Hendry County youth and Florida Statewide youth who reported having used various drugs in their lifetimes, 2012

Hendry County Florida Statewide

Middle School

High School Female Male

Ages 10-14

Ages 15-17 Total

Middle School

High School Female Male

Ages 10-14

Ages 15-17 Total

Alcohol 34.7 54.5 48.8 42.9 34.6 56.6 46.0 28.9 61.3 48.8 45.8 30.8 61.6 47.3

Cigarettes 16.6 29.3 24.4 23.7 15.5 28.5 23.9 11.8 28.5 21.1 21.5 12.1 28.6 21.3

Marijuana or Hashish 9.7 31.0 20.9 23.9 10.5 32.0 22.1 8.3 34.4 21.9 24.5 9.2 34.7 23.2

Synthetic Marijuana -- 8.7 6.5 11.7 -- 8.5 8.7 -- 13.0 10.9 15.1 -- 13.0 13.0

Inhalants 11.8 6.8 11.3 6.0 11.5 6.9 8.9 9.9 6.4 8.9 6.8 9.5 6.5 7.9

Club Drugs 1.3 4.9 2.2 4.8 1.0 5.3 3.3 1.1 5.1 3.2 3.5 1.2 5.0 3.4

LSD, PCP or Mushrooms 1.6 3.3 2.2 3.1 0.9 4.1 2.6 1.4 5.1 2.8 4.3 1.5 5.1 3.5

Methamphetamine 1.6 2.2 1.9 2.1 1.3 2.3 2.0 1.0 1.1 0.9 1.1 1.0 1.1 1.0

Cocaine or Crack Cocaine 3.4 4.9 4.2 4.4 3.0 5.6 4.2 1.1 3.1 1.9 2.6 1.2 3.0 2.3

Heroin 0.8 2.2 1.2 2.1 0.7 2.0 1.6 0.5 0.8 0.5 0.8 0.6 0.8 0.7

Depressants 2.2 6.0 4.9 3.9 1.8 6.6 4.4 1.8 6.8 5.2 4.1 1.9 6.9 4.6

Prescription Pain Relievers 4.5 8.9 7.1 7.2 4.6 9.7 7.1 3.6 8.5 7.0 5.9 3.8 8.7 6.4

Prescription Amphetamines 2.1 1.9 2.0 2.0 1.6 2.8 2.0 1.1 4.8 3.4 3.1 1.2 4.7 3.2

Steroids (without a doctor's order) 0.7 1.6 0.8 1.8 0.7 1.6 1.2 0.7 0.9 0.5 1.2 0.7 0.9 0.8

Over-the-Counter Drugs 4.4 5.3 5.3 4.7 3.6 6.1 4.9 3.7 6.9 5.9 5.2 3.8 7.0 5.5

Source: Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (2012), Florida Department of Children and Families Note: Ecstasy, Rohypnol, GHB and ketamine are provided as examples in the question about club drugs. The symbol "--" indicates that data are not available.

The table above illustrates the wide array of substances that are abused by young people in their lifetimes. Beyond alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana use, high school students in Hendry County abuse prescription pain relievers most frequently (8.9% of Hendry County high school students reported having ever abused prescription pain relievers).

Middle school students abuse inhalants most frequently, even more than they do marijuana (11.8% of Hendry County middle school students reported having ever used inhalants). (Inhalants are typically spray paints, markers, glue, and cleaning fluids.)

Most of the data for Hendry County does not vary wildly from the state as whole, however, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin use in Hendry County is particularly high when compared to Florida statewide. Methamphetamine rates in Hendry County are double the state (2.0% Hendry vs. 1.0% State). Cocaine or crack cocaine has been reported at higher rates in Hendry County (4.2% Hendry vs. 2.3% State). Rates of lifetime heroin use were more than twice as high as the state rate (1.6% Hendry vs. 0.7% State).


Over the last eight years, those Hendry County students reporting that they have ever used alcohol has decreased. In 2004, 46.4 percent of Hendry County middle school students reported ever having used alcohol, while only 34.7 percent said the same in 2012. For high school students, the 2004 rate of lifetime alcohol use was 73.3 percent, which went down to 54.5 percent in 2012. Adults in Hendry County were surveyed on their thoughts regarding youth rates of substance abuse (survey questions and responses are included later in this assessment). When asked how many youth were abusing alcohol, a third of respondents felt that fewer than 26 percent were doing so. Nearly half of respondents, however, were more on target with the youth survey, responding that 26 to 50 percent of youth were abusing alcohol (46.0% of middle and high school students combined reported having ever used alcohol).

Also on the decline is cigarette use. The overall rate of Hendry County middle school and high school students reporting that they had ever used cigarettes in 2004 was 42.7 percent. This rate went down to 23.9 percent in 2012.

Marijuana use was guaged by Hendry County adults fairly similarly to how the youth reported. For 2012, middle and high school students combined reported 22.1 percent had ever used marijuana. Forty percent of adults surveyed felt that “some” youth (11%-25%) were using marijuana in the county.

On the rise is the use of heroin by Hendry County high school students. 2008 had a low of 0.6 percent of high school students reporting that they had ever used heroin. In 2012, this rate had increased to 2.2 percent.

When comparing the youth survey with the adult survey, the only significant difference in substance abuse usage was for depressants. Only 4.4 percent of youth reported having ever used depressants. Fifty-seven percent of adults in the county believed that at least 11 percent of youth were abusing depressants; 5 percent even felt that “most” (more than 50% of) youth were doing so.

All other substance abuse lifetime use rates have remained fairly consistent over the past several years with only minor fluctuations.


The Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey also asks students questions aimed at assessing the factors that can reduce or increase their likelihood of engaging in substance abuse. The responses to these questions are grouped into four domains, and scored.

The following tables compare the assets, or “protective factors”, that buffer children and youth from exposure to risk by either reducing the impact of the risks or changing the way that young people respond to risks. Note: Because protective factors are associated with better student behavioral outcomes, it is better to have protective factor scale scores with high values.

Protective Factor Prevalence Rate Trends Among Hendry County High School Students

High school students reported the lowest rates of protection for the Family Rewards for Prosocial Involvement (51%) and School Rewards for Prosocial Involvement (52%) scales.

Protective Factor Prevalence Rate Trends Among Hendry County Middle School Students

Middle school students reported the lowest rates of protection for the School Opportunities for Prosocial Involvement (42%) and Family Rewards for Prosocial Involvement (46%) scales.

Domain Scale Florida2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2012

Community Community Rewards for Prosocial Involvement 61 59 58 58 55 61Family Family Opportunities for Prosocial Involvement 47 51 49 52 54 56

Family Rewards for Prosocial Involvement 46 50 50 52 51 54School School Opportunities for Prosocial Involvement 49 42 55 46 54 61

School Rewards for Prosocial Involvement 48 44 46 48 52 61Peer and Individual Religiosity 56 64 60 63 62 59Average Prevalence Rate 51 52 53 53 55 59

Hendry County


Community Community Rewards for Prosocial Involvement 46 45 43 48 52 52Family Family Opportunities for Prosocial Involvement 58 54 50 50 53 59

Family Rewards for Prosocial Involvement 50 44 43 45 46 55School School Opportunities for Prosocial Involvement 39 31 41 30 42 50

School Rewards for Prosocial Involvement 45 31 39 39 50 52Peer and Individual Religiosity 49 53 42 47 49 50Average Prevalence Rate 48 43 43 43 49 53

Hendry County


The following tables compare the risk factors that increase the likelihood of a young person becoming involved in drug use, delinquency, school dropout and/or violence. For example, children living in families with poor parental monitoring are more likely to become involved in these problems. Note: Because risk is associated with negative behavioral outcomes, it is better to have lower risk factor scale scores.

Risk Factor Prevalence Rate Trends Among Hendry County High School Students

High school students reported the highest rates of risk for the Community Disorganization (62%) and Transitions and Mobility (55%) scales. Hendry County high school students reported rates higher than the state average for four out of five scales under the Community domain. For the School domain, Hendry County high school students had lower rates of risk for both scales than the state as a whole, and lower rates for two out of three categories in the Family domain.


Community Community Disorganization 58 60 57 63 62 48Transitions and Mobility 55 57 59 50 55 62Laws and Norms Favorable to Drug Use 37 35 33 41 39 35Perceived Availability of Drugs 51 42 40 42 35 32Perceived Availability of Handguns 50 56 50 50 50 34

Family Poor Family Management 53 53 51 50 47 41Family Conflict 33 32 34 32 28 35Parental Attitudes Favorable toward ATOD Use 39 40 36 37 32 37

School Poor Academic Performance 45 39 45 44 42 44Lack of Commitment to School 44 41 36 49 42 46

Peer and Individual Peer Rewards for Antisocial Behavior 41 40 34 44 46 43Favorable Attitudes toward Antisocial Behavior 41 45 36 35 31 38Favorable Attitudes toward ATOD Use 43 35 28 35 34 39Low Perceived Risks of Drug Use 41 39 37 40 48 53Early Initiation of Drug Use 51 41 36 37 35 30

Average Prevalence Rate 44 40 35 40 39 41

Hendry County


Risk Factor Prevalence Rate Trends Among Hendry County Middle School Students

Middle school students also reported the highest rates of risk for the Community Disorganization (65%) and Transitions and Mobility (54%) scales. Hendry County middle school students had higher rates than the state for all but three scales (Transitions and Mobility, Family Conflict, and Lack of Commitment to School). All five scales under the Peer and Individual domain were higher in Hendry County than the state average.


Community Community Disorganization 55 59 64 76 65 47Transitions and Mobility 59 59 52 55 54 59Laws and Norms Favorable to Drug Use 48 53 51 52 47 38Perceived Availability of Drugs 48 49 52 51 48 40Perceived Availability of Handguns 25 33 37 32 34 23

Family Poor Family Management 52 55 58 51 51 43Family Conflict 37 45 43 51 36 38Parental Attitudes Favorable toward ATOD Use 22 25 20 27 22 19

School Poor Academic Performance 56 54 54 44 52 41Lack of Commitment to School 53 56 53 53 45 48

Peer and Individual Peer Rewards for Antisocial Behavior 41 33 42 45 44 41Favorable Attitudes toward Antisocial Behavior 53 50 48 49 45 41Favorable Attitudes toward ATOD Use 55 45 44 43 44 34Low Perceived Risks of Drug Use 46 43 42 50 49 43Early Initiation of Drug Use 53 50 46 43 37 29

Average Prevalence Rate 50 46 46 47 45 39

Hendry County


Florida Youth Tobacco Survey (FYTS)

The Florida Youth Tobacco Survey (FYTS) tracks indicators of tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke among Florida public middle and high school students and provides data for monitoring and evaluating tobacco use among youth for the Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Tobacco Prevention and Control. The first FYTS was administered in 1998. Since then, the FYTS has been conducted annually by the Florida Department of Health. County-level data have been collected in even years since 2000, with the exception of 2004.

The FYTS was administered in the spring of 2012 to 38,989 middle school students and 36,439 high school students in 746 public schools throughout the state. In Hendry County, the overall survey response rate for middle school students was 86.0 percent (521 students), and the overall survey response rate for high school students was 79.9 percent (637 students).

Smoked cigarettes on one or more of the past 30 days Hendry County 2006 – 2012 and Florida Statewide 2012

Source: Florida Youth Tobacco Survey (Florida Department of Health), 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2012.

The overall trend is that cigarette smoking is decreasing by the youth of Hendry County. However, the percentage of students in Hendry County who reported having smoked cigarettes in the past 30 days in 2012 was higher than the state average for both middle school students (5.1% Hendry vs. 3.3% State) and high school students (12.5% Hendry vs. 10.1% State).

02468

1012141618

Middle School High School

County 2006 County 2008 County 2010 County 2012 Florida 2012


Used any form of tobacco on one or more of the past 30 days Hendry County 2006 – 2012 and Florida Statewide 2012


The percentage of students reporting any form of tobacco use has fluctuated within a smaller margin over the last several years. Middle school students in Hendry County reported rates as high as 15.7 percent in 2010 and as low as 10.3 percent in 2012. High school students in Hendry County reported higher rates. These rates were as high as 25.4 percent in 2008 and as low as 21.3 percent in 2012. While both groups of students had their lowest rates in 2012, these were still higher than the state of Florida as a whole (6.4% State middle school students, 17.9% State high school students).

0

5

10

15

20

25

30




Have never smoked a cigarette and will definitely not smoke a cigarette in the future or if a friend offered one

Hendry County 2006 – 2012 and Florida Statewide 2012


Students were offered the option to state that they have never smoked a cigarette and do not intend to, even if offered one by a friend. More than half of middle school students surveyed have consistently reported that they have never and will never smoke a cigarette, from a low of 53.3 percent in 2006 to a high of 65.9 percent in 2010, and a current rate of 61.0 percent. For Hendry County high school students, the numbers are slightly lower, with a current rate of only 47.7 percent of students reporting that they have never and will never smoke a cigarette. The state rates currently are slightly higher (72.0% State middle school students, 58.4% State high school students).

Overall, rates of youth tobacco use are slowly decreasing, and the percentage of students who are pledging to abstain is on the rise. However, efforts to curb youth tobacco use should not be halted. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Hendry County, after heart disease, and lung cancer causes the highest number of cancer deaths.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80




Student Social Norms Survey

The Student Social Norms Survey is designed to assess and compare actual substance use and perceived substance use among the youth of a community. Knowing the perception of use by the students is important as perception is a determinant of actual use. As perception of substance use decreases, so too does actual use.

The following data is separated between high school and middle school students. The data for middle school students includes seventh and eighth grade students only. The most recent data, for the 2012-2013 school year includes responses from 1,318 high school students and 668 middle school students. Surveys were collected from equal numbers of male and female students.

The following tables illustrate the actual reported use of each substance during the past 30 days by students compared to the perceived use of the same substance by other “typical” students.

Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County High School Students At least one drink of alcohol during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey The percentage of high school students who reported having at least one drink of alcohol during the past 30 days has remained fairly consistent over the years, with a low of 31 percent for the 2009-2010 school year and a high of 35 percent during the 2008-2009 and 2011-2012 school years. Perception of alcohol use was it its lowest rate for the 2012-2013 school year (81%) compared to a high of 86 percent in the 2009-2010 school year.

For the 2012-2013 school year, 48 percent of Hendry County high school students stated that they have never used alcohol. For those who have, the average age of their first use was 12.91 years.

35% 31% 32% 35% 33%

85% 86% 81%

85% 81%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County Middle School Students At least one drink of alcohol during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey

Progress has been made for Hendry County middle school students for both actual and perceived use of alcohol. The actual alcohol usage for the 2012-2013 school year for Hendry County middle school students was at its lowest (16%) and the perception of alcohol use was at its lowest as well (50%).

For the 2012-2013 school year, 74 percent of Hendry County middle school students stated that they have never used alcohol. For those who have, the average age of their first use was 11.16 years.

23% 22% 18%

21% 16%

59% 61% 58%

67%

50%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County High School Students Smoked cigarettes during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey The percentage of high school students who reported having smoked cigarettes during the past 30 days has remained fairly consistent over the years, ranging from a low of 16 percent to a high of 20 percent. The most recent data was on the low end (17% for the 2012-2013 school year). Perception of cigarette smoking was it its lowest rate for the 2012-2013 school year (71%) compared to a high of 80 percent in the 2009-2010 school year.

For the 2012-2013 school year, 73 percent of Hendry County high school students stated that they have never smoked cigarettes. For those who have, the average age of their first use was 11.99 years.

17% 16% 20% 17% 17%

79% 80% 75% 78%

71%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County Middle School Students Smoked cigarettes during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey The percentage of Hendry County middle school students who reported having smoked cigarettes during the past 30 days has decreased by half since the first Student Social Norms Survey was administered (15% 2008-2009 vs. 8% 2012-2013). Additionally, perceived use has seen a dramatic decrease as well. The perceived usage for the 2012-2013 school year was at an all-time low of 42 percent, after a high of 60 percent for the 2011-2012 school year. For the 2012-2013 school year, 87 percent of Hendry County middle school students stated that they have never smoked cigarettes. For those who have, the average age of their first use was 11.00 years.

15% 13% 9% 9% 8%

55% 54% 53%

60%

42%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County High School Students Used smokeless tobacco (chew) during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey A question on the use of smokeless tobacco/chew during the past 30 days was added to the Student Social Norms Survey during the 2010-2011 school year. Even with only three years’ worth of data, the numbers show an unfortunate trend. 11-13 percent of Hendry County high school students have reported using smokeless tobacco during the past 30 days. Fortunately, perception has decreased from 68 percent in the 2010-2011 school year to 58 percent during the 2012-2013 school year, which may help lead to a decrease in actual usage over time.

13% 11% 13%

68% 64%

58%

0

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived

data not available


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County Middle School Students Used smokeless tobacco (chew) during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey Middle school students reported the use of smokeless tobacco/chew at about half the rates of high school students in Hendry County, but the numbers are on the increase. During the first year surveyed about smokeless tobacco, only 5 percent of Hendry County middle school students reported actual use. In the 2012-2013 school year that number had risen to 7 percent. Perception of smokeless tobacco use has fluctuated from a high of 40 percent during the 2011-2012 school year to a low of 30 percent during the 2012-2013 school year.

5% 6% 7%

33%

40%

30%

0

0.05

0.1

0.15

0.2

0.25

0.3

0.35

0.4

0.45

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived

data not available


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County High School Students

Used marijuana during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey Hendry County high school students have reported increased use of marijuana over the past several years. During the 2008-2009 school year 20 percent of students reported having used marijuana during the past 30 days. As of the 2012-2013 school year that percentage has risen and is at its highest, 24 percent. The perception of marijuana use among high school students in Hendry County has remained fairly consistent over the years surveyed, between 76 percent and 80 percent.

For the 2012-2013 school year, 64 percent of Hendry County high school students stated that they have never used marijuana. For those who have, the average age of their first use was 12.57 years.

20% 20% 22% 23% 24%

77% 79% 78% 80% 76%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived


Actual vs. Perceived Use of Hendry County Middle School Students Used marijuana during the past 30 days

Source: Hendry County Student Social Norms Survey The percentage of Hendry County middle school students who reported using marijuana has fluctuated over the past several years, but overall is on the decline. The 2008-2009 school year showed the highest rate, 14 percent, while the 2012-2013 school year had a rate of 10 percent. Overall perception of marijuana use is also on the decline for Hendry County middle school students. The perception during the 2011-2012 school year was 53 percent. This had declined to only 41 percent in the 2012-2013 school year.

For the 2012-2013 school year, 86 percent of Hendry County middle school students stated that they have never used marijuana. For those who have, the average age of their first use was 11.26 years.

14% 13% 8%

12% 10%

48% 48%

42%

53%

41%

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

2008-2009 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013

Actual

Perceived


Community Survey

An online survey was distributed to members of the Hendry County community to gauge the perspective of area residents on drug and alcohol abuse by area youth. Listed below are the results of the survey. The survey questions are available in Appendix A.

Summary of Survey Responses

The Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida, with feedback from the Hendry County Health Department, developed a survey questionnaire to assess the feelings and perceptions of drug and alcohol abuse among Hendry County youth. The survey was conducted online and on paper. Surveys were distributed to those who live and/or work in Hendry County. Links to the online version of the survey were distributed through flyers and email blasts.

40 surveys were completed on paper and online over a two month period in the fall of 2013. 83 percent of respondents identified as female, 17 percent as male. 88.9 percent identified as white, 5.6 percent as black or African American, and 5.6 percent as mixed race. 20 percent identified as Hispanic or Latino, 80 percent identified as not Hispanic or Latino. 24.3 percent had children under 12 living in their home, 27.0 percent had children between the ages of 12 and 20 living in their home, and 54.1 had no children living in their home.

The findings of the surveys were compiled by the Health Planning Council, and are as follows:

Survey respondents were asked how many youth (ages 12 – 20) in Hendry County are abusing the following substances. The largest number of respondents felt that MANY youth (roughly 26%-50%) are abusing alcohol and cigarettes. The largest number of respondents felt that SOME youth (roughly 11%-25%) are abusing smokeless tobacco, marijuana, and depressants. It was felt that a FEW youth (roughly 5%-10%) are abusing all of the other substances listed.

None A Few (5%-10%)Some

(11%-25%)Many

(26%-50%)Most

(more than 50%)Alcohol 2.5% 10.0% 30.0% 45.0% 12.5%Cigarettes 2.5% 27.5% 27.5% 30.0% 12.5%Smokeless Tobacco (chew, dip) 2.5% 17.5% 52.5% 22.5% 5.0%Marijuana or Hashish 2.5% 25.0% 40.0% 20.0% 12.5%Synthetic Marijuana (K2, Spice) 13.2% 47.4% 31.6% 2.6% 5.3%Inhalants (glue, markers, nitrous oxide) 18.4% 55.3% 23.7% 0.0% 2.6%Club Drugs (Ecstasy, GHB, Molly, Rohypnol) 5.3% 63.2% 26.3% 2.6% 2.6%LSD, PCP or Mushrooms 38.5% 41.0% 15.4% 2.6% 2.6%Methamphetamine (Meth) 22.5% 47.5% 17.5% 10.0% 2.5%Cocaine or Crack Cocaine 12.8% 59.0% 20.5% 5.1% 2.6%Heroin 35.9% 53.8% 7.7% 0.0% 2.6%Depressants (Ativan, Valium, Xanax) 7.5% 35.0% 40.0% 12.5% 5.0%Prescription Pain Relievers 7.5% 35.0% 30.0% 20.0% 7.5%Prescription Amphetamines (Dexedrine, Adderall, Ritalin) 12.5% 40.0% 25.0% 17.5% 5.0%Steroids (without a doctor’s order) 27.5% 55.0% 7.5% 7.5% 2.5%Over – the– Counter Drugs 10.5% 50.0% 18.4% 10.5% 10.5%

From your understanding, how many youth (ages 12 – 20) in Hendry County are abusing the following substances?


Survey respondents were asked how frequently they feel these substances are being abused. Cigarettes and smokeless tobacco were felt by the largest number of respondents to be used most frequently of all the substances. The vast majority of responses indicate that respondents felt most substance abuse is only done occasionally.

Respondents were asked where they believed the youth of Hendry County were obtaining these substances. The largest proportion of those surveyed responded that they bought it themselves. Other answers with a high number of responses were that youth obtained the substances from their parents, at home without parental knowledge, or from other family.

* Brenda's Bar in Clewiston, FL, given to them by "friends"

Almost Never Sometimes Frequently Very Frequently Not ApplicableAlcohol 0.0% 25.0% 47.5% 25.0% 2.5%Cigarettes 0.0% 22.5% 50.0% 25.0% 2.5%Smokeless Tobacco (chew, dip) 0.0% 20.0% 55.0% 22.5% 2.5%Marijuana or Hashish 0.0% 41.0% 38.5% 17.9% 2.6%Synthetic Marijuana (K2, Spice) 10.3% 64.1% 15.4% 7.7% 2.6%Inhalants (glue, markers, nitrous oxide) 23.7% 55.3% 15.8% 2.6% 2.6%Club Drugs (Ecstasy, GHB, Molly, Rohypnol) 15.0% 55.0% 22.5% 5.0% 2.5%LSD, PCP or Mushrooms 43.6% 41.0% 12.8% 0.0% 2.6%Methamphetamine (Meth) 25.0% 47.5% 17.5% 5.0% 5.0%Cocaine or Crack Cocaine 17.9% 53.8% 17.9% 5.1% 5.1%Heroin 46.2% 38.5% 10.3% 2.6% 2.6%Depressants (Ativan, Valium, Xanax) 2.5% 52.5% 32.5% 10.0% 2.5%Prescription Pain Relievers 5.0% 40.0% 35.0% 15.0% 5.0%Prescription Amphetamines (Dexedrine, Adderall, Ritalin) 12.5% 47.5% 25.0% 12.5% 2.5%Steroids (without a doctor’s order) 27.5% 52.5% 12.5% 5.0% 2.5%Over – the– Counter Drugs 7.7% 48.7% 25.6% 12.8% 5.1%

From your understanding, among those who abuse the following substances (ages 12-20), how frequently do you feel the typical user is using?

30 29 29 28

22

19

2

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

bought itthemselves

other family(older sibling,aunt/uncle,

etc.)

at homewithoutparental

knowledge

their parent(s) someoneelse's

parent(s)

stranger Other*


When asked where the youth are abusing these substances, those surveyed responded most frequently that they are being abused at a friend’s home, in a car or other vehicle, or at their own home.

The views of a community can play a role in the actions of community members, including youth. The Hendry County community’s views on substance abuse by youth were felt by survey respondents to lean towards the side of disapproval for most situations mentioned. Over 15 percent of those surveyed responded that there is community approval of high school students attending parties where there is no parental supervision. However, an overwhelming majority responded that the community disapproves or strongly disapproves of drinking and driving.

38 35

29

22

17 16

12

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

at a friend'shome

car or othervehicle

at their home parks school open fields bars, clubs

Strongly Disapprove Disapprove

Not Sure / Neutral Approve

Strongly Approve

High school students smoking cigarettes. 38.5% 48.7% 12.8% 0.0% 0.0%High school students using chew tobacco / dip. 30.8% 38.5% 28.2% 2.6% 0.0%High school students drinking beer or wine. 30.8% 48.7% 15.4% 5.1% 0.0%High school students drinking liquor. 48.7% 38.5% 10.3% 2.6% 0.0%High school students smoking marijuana once or twice to find out what it is like. 35.9% 41.0% 20.5% 2.6% 0.0%High school students attending parties where there is no parental supervision. 41.0% 30.8% 12.8% 12.8% 2.6%High school students using drugs at parties. 56.4% 33.3% 7.7% 2.6% 0.0%High school students pressuring other students to drink alcohol. 56.4% 35.9% 7.7% 0.0% 0.0%High school students who choose not to drink at a party where other students are drinking 12.8% 2.6% 25.6% 38.5% 20.5%Parents who provide alcohol to high school students. 57.9% 31.6% 10.5% 0.0% 0.0%Drinking and driving. 81.6% 5.3% 10.5% 0.0% 2.6%

How do members of the Hendry County community view the following?


Community perception was questioned further. The majority of those surveyed felt that alcohol and drugs are easily attained in Hendry County. Alcohol use was felt by more survey respondents to be accepted in the community than drugs. Responses were mixed about whether or not youth receive adequate education regarding alcohol and drugs.

When asked their personal views on drinking alcohol, 64% of those surveyed responded that drinking alcohol in moderation is all right for adults, but never for people under 21. None of the survey respondents selected the response that occasional underage drinking is OK if it doesn’t interfere with schoolwork and responsibilities.

Strongly Disagree Disagree

Not Sure / Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

It is easy for youth to get alcohol in our community. 0.0% 2.6% 10.3% 64.1% 23.1%It is easy for youth to get drugs in our community. 2.6% 0.0% 10.3% 64.1% 23.1%This community has a high acceptance of alcohol use. 2.6% 25.6% 12.8% 43.6% 15.4%This community has a high acceptance of drug use. 12.8% 46.2% 20.5% 10.3% 10.3%Youth receive adequate education regarding alcohol and other drugs in this community. 15.4% 25.6% 28.2% 28.2% 2.6%Youth who drink alcohol are more l ikely to have alcohol problems later in l ife. 2.6% 2.6% 15.4% 38.5% 41.0%One reason underage drinking occurs in this community is that there are not enough activities for youth. 2.6% 20.5% 17.9% 10.3% 48.7%

How much do you agree or disagree with the following statements?


Communicating anti-substance abuse messages are crucial in the battle against drug and alcohol abuse. Those surveyed were asked what the best ways to communicate anti-substance abuse messages are. The majority of respondents suggested through parents, through schools, on Facebook, and through churches and youth groups.

When asked what types of messages would be the most effective in reducing substance abuse in Hendry County, respondents selected from the responses in the following chart. The threat of receiving poor grades in school were selected the least frequently of all the options provided.

* parents saying there will is zero tolerance for substance abuse

33 31 30

26

15 14 11 10 10

8 7 5 5 5 4

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

26 24 23 22 22

17

6

1 0

5

10

15

20

25

30

police recordcan hurtfuture

opportunities(college, jobs)

potentialhealth

dangers(cancer, killsbrain cells)

it is illegal /can go to jail

not everyoneis doing it

danger ofaddiction

fear ofoverdosing

can lead topoor grades

Other*


Respondents were then asked who the most influential people were who should be delivering these messages. Parents received 31 responses, compared to 13 responses for celebrities. Their peers/friends were felt to be influential by 26 respondents.

* health professionals, mentors, sports figures, The sheriff openly uses snuff in the presence of youth.

While communication is a large part of any campaign, it is only a part of the process. When asked what other ways Hendry County should work to prevent substance abuse, most respondents selected the responses for campaigns aimed at parents as well as more recreational facilities for the youth.

* Education at an early age level (Elementary age), and supporting teens in making good decisions, whatever that may be. Recreation, things to do, education, recognition.

31

26

19 19

13 11

9 6 6

4 3

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

28 27

13

10

2

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

campaign aimedat parents

more recreationalfacilities

increased policepresence in the

county

moreopportunities to

play sports

Other*


Respondents were asked if they had heard of any local substance abuse campaigns. 62 percent said they had. Mentioned most frequently were “Be the Wall” and Drug Free Hendry. When asked how effective they felt these campaigns were, of those who mentioned “Be the Wall”, 14 percent said Somewhat Ineffective, 57 percent said Not Sure/Neutral, and 29 percent said Effective. Of those who mentioned Drug Free Hendry, 33 percent said Not Sure/Neutral and 67 percent said Effective. Of all of the responses combined, over 54 percent said they were unsure if the campaigns they were aware of were effective.

Survey respondents were asked to rank various substances in order of which they were most concerned about the youth of Hendry County using/abusing. The substances were ranked from 1-16 by 38 respondents. Those rankings were combined to create a point system (higher rankings equaled higher points). Overwhelmingly the number one substance of concern was alcohol which was ranked number one by 42% of the respondents. Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco were ranked as the second and third most concerning substances followed by Marijuana or Hashish and Synthetic Marijuana. Overall, twelve of the sixteen listed substances were ranked as the most concerning substance by at least one respondent. The following list ranks these substances.

1. Alcohol (553 points, ranked #1 by 16 respondents) 2. Cigarettes (487 points, ranked #1 by 1 respondents) 3. Smokeless Tobacco (465 points, ranked #1 by 2 respondents) 4. Marijuana or Hashish (446 points, ranked #1 by 3 respondents) 5. Synthetic Marijuana (412 points, ranked #1 by 3 respondents) 6. Inhalants (383 points) 7. Club Drugs (359 points, ranked #1 by 2 respondents) 8. Cocaine or Crack Cocaine (314 points, ranked #1 by 2 respondents) 9. LSD, PCP or Mushrooms (300 points) 10. Methamphetamine (295 points, ranked #1 by 3 respondents) 11. Depressants (288 points) 12. Prescription Pain Relievers (222 points, ranked #1 by 2 respondents) 13. Heroin (205 points, ranked #1 by 1 respondent) 14. Prescription Amphetamines (199 points, ranked #1 by 2 respondents) 15. Steroids (without a doctor’s order) (122 points, ranked #1 by 1 respondent) 16. Over-the-Counter Drugs (118 points)


Survey respondents were given the option to leave additional comments at the end of the survey. Listed below are the comments received.

I applaud the Hendry County Drug Free Program for working with our youth in educatting them on the harmfull effects of getting involved with any drugs, and as a parent I always talk to my son on the dangers of any drug use.

We need to stop the revolving door with habitual offenders even if they rat out other people that the sheriff's office believes are bigger targets but they get let off and go right back to abusing and selling for someone eles we need stricter laws

Keep up the fight!

This is absolutely the biggest problem in this community.

As parents we hear where the drug dealers are at like someone named Alberto Hernandez at Brenda's Bar. Do the authorities know this? Can they do anything about it or are there just too many of them? Thank you!


Interviews with Adults in the Community

Adults in the Hendry County community were interviewed to gather specific examples of drug and alcohol abuse by youth in the county, and how the community views such abuse. Listed below is a summary of their responses. The interview guide is included in Appendix B.

The Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida interviewed twelve Hendry County community members to gain insight into the substance abuse attitudes and activities among the youth of Hendry County. Twelve adults answered interview questions aimed at ascertaining what they have seen in their community. Nine of these twelve were parents and eight of these individuals work with youth. Those who work with youth had positions such as teacher, coach, employer, and youth pastor.

When asked their general thoughts on substance abuse among the youth (ages 12-20) in Hendry County, many of the adults interviewed felt that alcohol is the substance most widely abused by area youth, even occasionally at the middle school level. After alcohol use, marijuana was felt to be the next most frequently abused substance. Other substances mentioned were speed, methamphetamines (meth), Molly, and prescription drugs.

Two interviewees felt that there isn’t a problem among the youth that they are in contact with. “It doesn’t appear to be a big priority to them,” stated one community member. Another interviewee stated that drug and alcohol abuse among the youth of Hendry County is not as big of a problem as most people think.

One community member stated that youth involved in athletics were not likely to be experimenting with underage alcohol use. The majority of others interviewed felt that alcohol use was fairly widespread throughout the youth of the county. “Kids don’t see it as an issue,” stated on interviewee. Another interviewee stated, “I think that is our most commonly abused drug.” As this is a legal substance, it is felt to be easier to attain. It was suggested by one community member that a twenty-one year old might legally purchase alcohol and give it to younger friends, feeling that they are “only a couple years apart,” so it is okay.

When it comes to tobacco use, many suggested that cigarettes are being used much less frequently by the youth than in the past. “They know it’s bad for them,” stated one interviewee. It was mentioned that dip and chewing tobacco are seen more often than cigarettes, especially among the “redneck kids”. One community member stated, ‘There’s a lot of chewing tobacco. They think it’s not as bad as smoking.”

The vast majority of those interviewed believe that marijuana is widely abused by the youth of Hendry County. Some felt that it is abused even more frequently than cigarettes and possibly alcohol. One interviewee stated that alcohol was something the youth use, “on the side,” and that more frequent was marijuana use. Another interviewee stated that marijuana use is “more prevalent” than the youth surveys indicate. It was suggested by one interviewee that, “society’s attitude makes it seem as if it is no big deal.”


Interviewees were asked if there were other illegal drugs being abused by the youth. A few community members said no, but most said that illegal drugs are being abused in Hendry County by youth. Most frequently mentioned were methamphetamines, club drugs (ecstasy in particular), and cocaine. Meth was mentioned by one interviewee as being “real bad in LaBelle,” due to its accessibility and low cost. Multiple interviewees stated that ecstasy was a big problem in the area in the recent past. However, it is not felt to be as big a problem currently.

Other illegal substances mentioned were mushrooms, Molly, and synthetic drugs. It was suggested by one community member that those on probation were frequently using synthetic drugs, such as bath salts, spice, and synthetic marijuana, as those cannot be detected on a drug test.

Prescription drug abuse by the youth of Hendry County was felt by many to be a big issue; some felt it to be a growing issue as well. Prescription pain pills are considered easy to attain, as they are available in the home. Xanax (the trade name for alprazolam), prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication, was the most frequently mentioned prescription medication that the community members interviewed felt the youth were abusing. Other prescription/legal drugs mentioned were opiates, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as cough syrup.

Community members were asked where the youth of Hendry County are abusing these substances. More than half stated at home or at someone else’s home. Five interviewees felt that often times youth are abusing these substances at home with adult supervision. Four interviewees stated that substances are being abused at school. Others suggested youth abuse substances “anywhere they are unsupervised”, in fields, and “by the dyke” in Clewiston.

When asked how easy it is for youth to obtain these substances, responses included “very easy”, “fairly easy”, “easy”, and “if they want it they can get it.” One community member suggested that it is, “probably real easy with the communication via social media.”

The ease with which youth are obtaining drugs and alcohol may be attributed to the multiple places where the substance can be attained. Community members suggested that youth are obtaining these substances from older friends, older siblings/other older family members, parents, they steal alcohol and prescription drugs from their own homes, or they buy it themselves from area stores that do not follow age restrictions on legal substances. One interviewee stated, “It’s a small town. Everybody knows who to go to. There are teenagers who are dealing it.”

When asked if there are parents or adults who have hosted parties where alcohol is available or served to teenagers, half of the interviewees had not heard of this happening. The other half of the interviewees reported that they had heard of this happening. Most stated that it was just one or two sets of parents that held parties where alcohol was available to teenagers. The thought process of these parents is felt to be, “it is safer to do at home,” and “it’s okay as long as they are here.” One interviewee felt that a larger number of parents are providing alcohol to youth. Prom parties and quinceñeras were mentioned as regular instances of parents allowing youth to drink alcohol.


Perceptions of drug and alcohol abuse in a community can have an impact on the rates of abuse. Community members interviewed described a laid-back attitude towards alcohol use by the youth of the county. One interviewee explained that the attitude of many adults in Hendry County is, “if done in my sight, better than behind my back,” and another stated that the attitude is that, “at least they’re not killing anybody.” Others felt it was expected that the youth will experiment with alcohol. One interviewee stated of Hendry County, “It’s a rite of passage here, especially for young redneck boys and Hispanic boys.” Another stated that the attitude is that, “they’re teenagers; they’re going to experiment.”

A small number of interviewees felt that members of the Hendry County community were less laid-back in their views on alcohol use among the youth of the county. It was noted that, “Clewiston is a little more conservative,” and that the, “overwhelming majority are very concerned about it.”

As tobacco use in general has declined over the years, concern about the overall issue of its use has declined as well. It was stated by one community member that tobacco use by the youth is, “not given much attention,” and by another that since smoking has decreased it is, “not as big of an issue.” One interviewee, however, felt that tobacco use has, “a more negative view than alcohol.”

Among illegal substances, opinions were stronger. When asked how members of the Hendry County community view the use of marijuana by youth, responses were mixed. About half of interviewed community members felt that marijuana use is “frowned upon” and viewed as more of a concern than legal substances like alcohol and tobacco. The other half of interviewees felt that “it’s really accepted” particularly as it is becoming legal in many states. One interviewee stated that some community members have the attitude that, “at least they’re not doing cocaine.”

“Zero tolerance,” was how one community members described feelings regarding the use of other drugs by the youth of Hendry County. Others mimicked these sentiments, stating, “It’s a concern,” and that residents view it, “very negatively.” However, a few felt that not all residents view drug use that severely. One interviewee stated, “it’s kind of thought of as no big deal; the majority are not frequent users.” Another stated that they believed, “ten percent think it’s not a big deal.”

The number one response when asked why youth choose to abuse these substances was boredom. One interviewee stated, “There’s nothing else to do. There’s no public transportation to go anywhere.” Also frequently mentioned as a reason for youth abusing substances was that they are trying to fit in with their peers. Peer pressure and a desire to be “cool” and be like the crowd were felt to be strong factors in why a young person in Hendry County might take up alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs. Other responses included curiosity and wanting to escape from their problems.

When asked what the best ways to stop the use of these substances are, the community members interviewed had a variety of suggestions. Half of the interviewees mentioned the need for more education of the youth on the consequences of substance abuse. Four interviewees suggested the need for entertainment in the area, such as a skating rink, a pizza place, a movie theater, and/or a bowling alley. Three interviewees felt that parents need to be educated as well. One community member


suggested that beyond simply educating the parents, the parents, “need to come together and stop tolerating it.”

Other suggestions for stopping substance abuse among the youth in Hendry County were enforcing consequences, getting youth involved in activities (sports, 4-H, and church youth groups, for example), mentoring the youth on a one-on-one basis, and offering in-home support group for families of those who are addicted to drugs.

Community members were asked if they have heard of any local anti-substance abuse campaigns, and if they felt these campaigns were effective. Seven interviewees mentioned the Drug Free Hendry County program. Five of the seven felt that Drug Free Hendry County is “very effective,” and “gets the kids involved.” Two of the seven felt it was not terribly effective. One stated, “I don’t think it has been really effective; it has done all it can.” The other stated that it won’t be very effective, “until we get more buy-in from parents and schools.”

Four interviewees mentioned the Be the Wall campaign in Hendry County. Thoughts on this campaign were, “I don’t know. Kids are still getting drunk,” “not effective; waste of resources; just a slogan,” and “need more buy-in from the community.” Other local anti-substance abuse campaigns mentioned were SWAT and SADD, which were both felt to be effective.

When asked what the best ways to communicate anti-substance abuse messages to the youth of Hendry County are, responses included more education/exposure in the schools, using print media, radio, and social media, educating the parents so they can relay the messages directly to their children, and going to the kids directly – possibly at football games or other places/events where they are known to hang out. It was felt by one interviewee that some of the campaigns are effective while the momentum is still there, but there is a lack of follow-up to keep the momentum going.

Communicating anti-substance abuse messages regularly to the youth can help to reduce the incidents of abuse in the county. All of the community members interviewed felt that strong, visual messages were the most effective for youth. One interviewee stated the most effective messages are those that are, “showing the harms that it can do.” Before and after photos of a meth user was suggested as an effective message by another interviewee. Several community members referenced the Truth Campaigns for tobacco as excellent examples of tying the substances to their health consequences in a strong, visual way. Beyond the health risks, showing examples of what life could be like when substances are abused, as one interviewee put it, “what the toll is going to be on their lives.”

When asked who should be delivering these messages, the majority felt that this role should fall upon the parents. However, one community member noted that while parents should be delivering anti-substance abuse messages to their children, they aren’t. “Somebody else needs to do it in their place.” Other suggestions were teachers, coaches, peers, churches, school nurses, community leaders, and other role models. One interviewee felt that speakers who are former addicts could deliver a powerful message as well.


When trying to pinpoint the most important issue related to substance abuse among youth in Hendry County, almost half of community members interviewed felt that education was the key. One interviewee stated, “Keep pounding it in their brains. It’s not a cool thing. It’s not a good thing.” Multiple community members felt that the county needs to focus on changing the way drugs are viewed. “Parents’ permissiveness,” is the problem. Multiple interviewees stated that the most important issue to them was the ease with which alcohol was available to youth, and how socially acceptable it is. Other responses included peer pressure and the high prevalence of meth use.

Community members were asked if they had any additional comments on substance abuse among youth in Hendry County. One community member shared, “I’m encouraged that some of the substance abuse is not nearly as prevalent as twenty-five years ago.” Another stated, “Drug Free Hendry does a good job. Always giving presentations at events. They care about their kids.” One interviewee stated, “The prescription pill problem, while it does seem to be waning with the older crowd, I don’t see it dropping in teen use.” Another suggested that, “kids need something positive to hold their attention and entertain. When you are bored you are willing to do things you shouldn’t.”


Appendix A

Community Survey Questions

1. From your understanding, how many youth (ages 12 – 20) in Hendry County are abusing the following substances?

None A Few (5%-10%)

Some (11%-25%)

Many (26%-50%)

Most (more than 50%)

Alcohol Cigarettes Smokeless Tobacco (chew, dip) Marijuana or Hashish Synthetic Marijuana (K2, Spice) Inhalants (glue, markers, nitrous oxide) Club Drugs (Ecstasy, GHB, Molly, Rohypnol)

LSD, PCP or Mushrooms Methamphetamine (Meth) Cocaine or Crack Cocaine Heroin Depressants (Ativan, Valium, Xanax) Prescription Pain Relievers Prescription Amphetamines (Dexedrine, Adderall, Ritalin)

Steroids (without a doctor’s order) Over – the– Counter Drugs


2. From your understanding, among those who abuse the following substances (ages 12-20), how frequently do you feel the typical user is using?

Almost Never Sometimes Frequently Very

Frequently Not

Applicable Alcohol Cigarettes Smokeless Tobacco (chew, dip) Marijuana or Hashish Synthetic Marijuana (K2, Spice) Inhalants (glue, markers, nitrous oxide) Club Drugs (Ecstasy, GHB, Molly, Rohypnol)

LSD, PCP or Mushrooms Methamphetamine (Meth) Cocaine or Crack Cocaine Heroin Depressants (Ativan, Valium, Xanax) Prescription Pain Relievers Prescription Amphetamines (Dexedrine, Adderall, Ritalin)

Steroids (without a doctor’s order) Over – the– Counter Drugs

3. Where do the youth of Hendry County obtain the substances they are abusing? (select all that apply)

their parent(s) bought it themselves someone else's parent(s) at home without parental knowledge other family (older sibling, aunt/uncle, etc.) other ___________________________ stranger

4. Where are the youth of Hendry County abusing these substances? (select all that apply)

at their home open fields at a friend's home bars, clubs school car or other vehicle parks other ___________________________


5. How do members of the Hendry County community view the following?

Strongly Disapprove Disapprove

Not Sure /

Neutral Approve Strongly

Approve

High school students smoking cigarettes. High school students using chew tobacco / dip.

High school students drinking beer or wine. High school students drinking liquor. High school students smoking marijuana once or twice to find out what it is like.

High school students attending parties where there is no parental supervision.

High school students using drugs at parties. High school students pressuring other students to drink alcohol.

High school students who choose not to drink at a party where other students are drinking

Parents who provide alcohol to high school students.

Drinking and driving.

6. How much do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

Strongly Disagree Disagree

Not Sure / Neutral Agree

Strongly Agree

It is easy for youth to get alcohol in our community. It is easy for youth to get drugs in our community. This community has a high acceptance of alcohol use. This community has a high acceptance of drug use. Youth receive adequate education regarding alcohol and other drugs in this community. Youth who drink alcohol are more likely to have alcohol problems later in life. One reason underage drinking occurs in this community is that there are not enough activities for youth.


7. Which statement below represents your own attitudes about drinking alcohol?

Drinking alcohol is never a good thing for anyone at any age. Drinking alcohol in moderation is all right for adults, but never for people under 21. Occasional underage drinking is OK if it doesn't interfere with schoolwork & responsibilities. Underage drinking is inevitable - a rite of passage. Other _______________________________________________________

8. What do you think are the best ways to communicate anti-substance abuse messages to the youth of Hendry County? (choose up to three)

through the schools on Facebook through churches/youth groups on Twitter through the sheriff’s office on Tumblr through parents other Internet source(s) through doctors via text messages in magazines via emails on television through printed materials (brochures/flyers) in video games other ___________________________

9. Which do you think are the most effective messages? (select all that apply)

potential health dangers (cancer, kills brain cells) not everyone is doing it

fear of overdosing can lead to poor grades it is illegal / can go to jail danger of addiction

police record can hurt future opportunities (college, jobs)

other _________________________

10. Who are the most influential people who should be delivering these messages? (choose up to three)

parents celebrities older siblings / other relatives friends teachers police/sheriff school counselors church officials school nurses

other ______________________ doctors


11. Beyond communication, what other ways should Hendry County work to prevent substance abuse?

campaign aimed at parents more recreational facilities increased police presence in the county

other ________________________ more opportunities to play sports

12. Have you heard of any local anti-substance abuse campaigns?

yes no (If no, skip to Question 15)

13. If yes, what was the campaign you heard about?

14. How effective was that campaign?

Very Ineffective Somewhat Ineffective Not Sure / Neutral Effective Very Effective

15. Which of the following substances are you most concerned about the youth of Hendry County using/abusing? (rank your top 3 choices, 1 being the most concerning)

_ Alcohol _ Methamphetamine _ Cigarettes _ Cocaine or Crack Cocaine _ Smokeless Tobacco _ Heroin _ Marijuana or Hashish _ Depressants _ Synthetic Marijuana _ Prescription Pain Relievers _ Inhalants _ Prescription Amphetamines _ Club Drugs _ Steroids (without a doctor’s order) _ LSD, PCP or Mushrooms _ Over – the– Counter Drugs

Demographic Information:

What is your Zip Code? 33440 33930 33935 33975

Gender:

Male Female


Race:

American Indian or Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Black or African American White Mixed

Ethnicity: Hispanic or Latino Not Hispanic or Latino

Are there children in your home? Yes, Under 12 Yes, 12-20 No


Appendix B

Key Informant Interview Guide

On behalf of The Hendry County Health Department’s Drug Free Hendry, the Health Planning Council of SW Florida is conducting a county-wide drug and alcohol assessment. The goal of this assessment is to identify the substance abuse attitudes and activities among the youth of Hendry County. As a part of this study, we are conducting a series of interviews with key individuals throughout the county who have knowledge of the youth in Hendry County. You have been identified by the project team as a key informant based on your knowledge of the area youth. This interview will take approximately 45 minutes.

In the final report, the information you give will not be attributed to you by name. You will however be listed as a participant in the study. Are you ready to get started?

1. Are you a parent or do you have children in your home? What are their ages?

2. Do you work with children or teens? (In what capacity?)

3. What are your thoughts on substance abuse among the youth in Hendry County (ages 12-20)?

4. Now I’m going to name some specific substances, and if you could give your thoughts on their usage by the youth of Hendry County. (Are they being abused? How frequently?)

Alcohol

Tobacco

Marijuana

Other Illegal Drugs

Prescription/Over-the-Counter Drugs

5. Where are the youth of Hendry County abusing these substances?

6. How easy is it for youth to obtain these substances?

7. Where do the youth of Hendry County obtain the substances they are abusing?

8. Do you know parents or adults who have hosted parties where alcohol is available or served to teenagers? (Is it just one parent? Many?)

9. How do members of the Hendry County community view the use of alcohol by minors?

10. How do members of the Hendry County community view the use of tobacco by minors?


11. How do members of the Hendry County community view the use of marijuana by youth?

12. How do members of the Hendry County community view the use of other drugs by youth?

13. Why do you think youth choose to abuse these substances?

14. What do you think are the best ways to decrease and/or stop the use of these substances?

15. Have you heard of any local anti-substance abuse campaigns? If yes, what was the campaign you heard about? How effective was that campaign?

16. What do you think are the best ways to communicate anti-substance abuse messages to the youth of Hendry County?

17. Which do you think are the most effective messages?

(Prompts: potential health dangers (cancer, kills brain cells), not everyone is doing it, fear of overdosing, can lead to poor grades, it is illegal / can go to jail, danger of addiction, police record can hurt future, opportunities (college,jobs))

18. Who are the most influential people who should be delivering these messages?

19. Of everything we have discussed, what do you think is the most important issue related to substance abuse among youth in Hendry County?

20. Do you have any additional comments on substance abuse among youth in Hendry County?


Appendix C

Community Leaders Interviewed

Julie Burke

Haitham Kaki LaBelle Youth Development Academy

K&M Drug, LaBelle

Sherry Elliott

Greg Korean community member

community member

Beth Fabian

Preston Long Florida Department of Health, Hendry County

First Baptist Church

Don Gutshall

Reko Parantha Clewiston Police Department

Clewiston High School

Jessica Reyes Guzman

Al Perry community member

City of Clewiston

Ayman Kaki

Ken Pickles K&M Drug, Clewiston

LaBelle Middle School

Hendry County Florida...Hendry County has recently seen a decrease in the rates of alcohol-related...

Documents

Transcript of Hendry County Florida...Hendry County has recently seen a decrease in the rates of alcohol-related...