AADAC TO HOST INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FORUM

The United Nations Drug Control Program, together with the Canadian Centre
on Substance Abuse and the Alberta Alcohol and Drug Commission (AADAC)
stage a gathering of international youth drug prevention programs in Banff
from April 14 to 18. Young people will share their programs and experience
with drug abuse prevention in their countries as a first step to developing
strategies to address increased drug use.

In recent years, there has been a trend toward increased consumption of
drugs by young people around the world. A greater variety of drugs is
available and they are being taken in riskier forms. Many factors
contribute to the problem, including high levels of youth unemployment,
homelessness and poverty in countries around the world.

The event comes to Alberta, hosted by AADAC, as a result of the ongoing
work of CEO Leonard Blumenthal, Canadian Delegate to the United Nations.

One of the key responsibilities for AADAC is the coordination and training
of the Youth Crew, according to Denise Jones of AADAC, local organizing
committee chairman. "The Youth Crew is a team of Canadian youth who will be
involved in hosting, small group facilitation, off-site tours and
activities, daily newsletters and peer support." Albertans make up 34 of
the 49 young people on crew.

Youth are also involved in setting the agenda for the conferences.

The ultimate goal is to create a worldwide youth network that will monitor
trends and share information about youth drug abuse prevention programs.

According to Jocelyn Burgener, chair of AADAC, there are also significant
advantages for the youth involved and for the province.

"This is an opportunity for our young people to learn about what others are
doing to prevent drug abuse and the issues they face. In addition, they
will be able to share their views and experiences with peers from around
the world. From a broader perspective, this is a chance for AADAC to share
its expertise and to learn different approaches which may be successfully
applied to Alberta."

To date, more than 150 young people from 22 countries plan to attend the
conference.