Program Manager Ron Stark explained that changing a person’s environment shapes behavior.
Proper guidance increases a person’s lifespan by helping them avoid drugs and alcohol. Better results have been achieved with treating rather than punishing the behavior. The Fallbrook Youth Advocacy Coalition (YAC) works to reduce youth access to alcohol and other drugs in unincorporated areas.
Mr. Stark presented a behavioral formula. Behavior (B) equals the function (f) of the person (P) plus the environment (E) . Environmental changes shape behavior. In other words, less access drugs and alcohol limits usage.
Where do people keep medication? It sits in bathroom cabinets and bedside tables. Drug dealers visit real estate open houses to steal drugs from these locations. San Diego Realtors became part of the safe homes coalition reminding home sellers to lock away their medicines as well as other valuables.
The Coalition considers blocking other access points to drugs and alcohol. DUI checkpoints deter drunk drivers. The party or social host laws ensure that the host monitors underage drinking or be fined $10,000. Homeowners receive reminders about beer in garage refrigerators tempting young adults. Hospice patient’s families obtain direction for medication disposal. Red ribbons, worn by local football teams, raises awareness about underage drinking problems at after-game parties. Using virtual community meetings, the Coalition educates on drug issues in English, Spanish and other languages. Volunteers investigate streets and parks for drug problems that require remedy.
At the end of his presentation, Program Manager Stark urged Rotarians to “Be an Influencer” against substance abuse and “Be a Prevention Assessor” checking Fallbrook for areas that can be infiltrated by drug abuse.