RCMP Constable Kevin Wynn talks about D.A.R.E. program

The Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E) program continues to have strong support in Steinbach.  In fact, some would say it has never had better support thanks to Steinbach RCMP Constable Kevin Wynn. 

The Steinbach Rotary Club held its annual D.A.R.E. luncheon on Monday at the Brass Lantern.  At the luncheon, Wynn was congratulated for the large role he has played in getting the program into every school in the Steinbach detachment area.  Wynn wasn't taking all the credit though.  Rotary club President-elect David Rafeedie says the community at-large also needs a pat on the back.

"D.A.R.E. wouldn't happen if it weren't for our community supporting us and being very generous in that support."

Rafeedie says the reach continues to surprise them.

"Over 400 students went through the program last year and it sounds like they want to expand that this year so, we're looking forward to seeing that happen."

For his part, Wynn says it is a program that he gets a lot out of.

"I see those kids weeks, months or a year later and they remember.  They like to come up and talk with me and I know they've been sharing that information that they've learned with their friends and family.  To have that kind of impact, for me personally, it's just been incredible."

Hanover Superintendant Ken Klassen says the program has struggled in the past due to the demands of having a full-time RCMP Constable.  However, with Wynn dedicated to serving the community as a full-time liason, Klassen says that's helped the program to grow.

"The fact that we've been able to have a schedule and the schedule has been followed...and Kevin Wynn has been able to go to the schools each day during that time.  That kind of consistency has made it way more effective and we think that will pay-off big time.

The thing about that pay-off though is, it is immeasurable.  There's no tangible statistics that show the program is working here, but Klassen says they know it is, just by talking with the students.

"It's just the things that students say to us.  It means not only have they thought about it, but they are articulating it, and that's the thing that will stay with them.  Instead of us telling them something that they may or may not remember, they are telling us how they feel about it."

Wynn adds the program hits them at the perfect time and that's why it is so important.

"It touches on many topics that are very important for kids that age to become aware of.  The dangers of smoking, drinking, drugs, peer pressure and choosing friends wisely, etc. so, as they enter that junior high stage in their student careers it really gives them a strong background to fall back on."