The Drug Education for Youth (DEFY) program began their annual summer camp at Naval Air Facility Misawa on Misawa Airbase, Japan, Aug. 8.

DEFY's purpose is to both teach youth about avoiding destructive decisions and to promote a healthy lifestyle. The camp is free of charge and spans two weeks every summer. Curriculum consists of the children learning several topics in a classroom setting, going on several field trips, and taking part in physical activities and games outside of the classroom.

"This program is designed to inform them before they are confronted by peer pressure, and gives them the dos and don'ts when it comes to dealing with that type of situation," said David Vanneste, program manager at DEFY headquarters in Millington, Tennessee.

Along with the dangers of drugs, DEFY also covers the dangers of alcohol and tobacco.

Starting back in 1993, DEFY had two programs total. Today, there are 30 sites worldwide and approximately 1,000 kids and 500 mentors participate in the program every year.

"It gives the mentors a chance to do just that with these kids; mentor. Allows them to pass on their knowledge and wisdom to these children so that they can make the right decisions when the time comes," said Vanneste. "It's a great program and we are doing our best to get our name out there so that even more kids can get involved."

The first field trip this year was to the Misawa Aviation and Science Museum for a day of learning and activities. The field trip was followed by the President's Fitness Challenge, which is designed to increase physical activity and improve the fitness levels of America's youth.

"We teach the kids the basics of physical fitness, body weight type stuff and running," said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Andrew Morales, a team leader at DEFY. "This is my first time doing youth volunteer opportunities, and so far I like it as it sends a great message to maintain a drug-free lifestyle and promoting healthy choices."

"It shows that there are tons of alternative activities instead of doing drugs," said Morales. "As one of the volunteers at DEFY, this creates a great opportunity to have a positive impact on these kids, and the kids are enjoying themselves and all the different activities we are doing here 100 percent."

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