The Security Department of NAS Whidbey Island opened their doors of their new facility, Building 994, for the first time to military children Jan. 29 as hosts of the Drug Education For Youth (DEFY) program. Twelve children of various ages attended and were chaperoned by six mentors.

The event lasted about three hours and consisted of a demonstration by the military working dogs, a look inside a Humvee and patrol vehicles, current drug and alcohol presentation and a barbecue. Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Cody Abernathy, NAS Whidbey Island’s Junior Sailor of the Year, was instrumental in ensuring this event was a success. 

“As a parent myself, I feel it is important to support and ensure programs such as DEFY are offered to children,” said Abernathy. “It is a great way to enforce drug awareness and education and engage children of military families.”

DEFY is a self-esteem building program that provides kids with the tools they need to resist drugs, gangs and alcohol. Initially developed by the Drug Demand Reduction Task Force, DEFY is sponsored by the local command and restricted to youth ages 9-12 from military families. A two-phase program, DEFY begins in the summer with either a five-day residential or an eight-day non-residential camp program. This challenging, fun-filled week in the summer is followed by a year of mentoring.

Most participants gain a great deal from the DEFY experience. They make lasting friendships and learn a lot about themselves. Upon graduation, kids are placed in youth organizations that help them meet their goals.

DEFY focuses on building youngsters’ self-image and setting goals. It stresses interpersonal relations, and emphasizes leadership and teamwork. Along the way it raises awareness of the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs, as well as the dangerous effects of peer pressure to join gangs.

The structured curriculum offers education, skill development and physical fitness. In essence, the DEFY program provides leadership to kids and thereby strengthens military communities. The motto is ‘Strong Kids, Strong Families, Ready for the Future.’

The program is currently accepting applications for mentors and children.  It is free for children; parents do not have to pay any expenses.

For more information visit: http://www.donhq.navy.mil/defy{{PERIOD}} At NAS Whidbey Island, contact Logistics Specialist 1st Class Judy Curtis at:  .