Idaho Meth Project Raising Awareness?
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The Idaho Statesman recently published a story questioning the effectiveness of the Idaho Meth Project’s latest release of ads. Since 2007, the IMP has set out to raise awareness among teens and adults about the dangers of Meth and it’s widespread usage in the Treasure Valley. The Idaho Meth Project runs on support from donations and volunteers around the state of Idaho.
The 2nd phase of the Meth Project has kicked off, launching a new line of radio/television ads, the effectiveness of which is being questioned. When writing the content for the campaign, panels of teens were interviewed, the consensus being that they wanted the truth. No sugar coating, no lies. Just the truth about the dangers and side effects of Meth. After seeing the billboards and hearing the ads, they got what they asked for.
The blunt message of the ads and the sobering portrayal of life on Meth, is a true depiction of it’s addictive content.
As a volunteer for the Idaho Meth Project, I have seen the effect the ads have had on parents and youth in our community. At several IMP events and fundraisers, I have had parents express to me their appreciation for bringing the dangers of Meth to their attention; One father told me he never even knew Meth was an issue and after seeing the ads, looked for an opportunity to discuss it with his 3 daughters.
I have coordinated several speaking events at high schools around the Treasure Valley and have gotten feedback from students, teachers, and administrators alike that the presentations and material struck a chord with adults and children alike.
I don’t see how the relevance or effectiveness of this message can be questioned, even by a source as negative and pessimistic as the Idaho Statesman. It is disappointing that they would take such a positive message and cause doubt in the minds of locals, many of whom have spent time and effort spreading the Not Even One message.
To read the latest results from the 2008 Use and Attitudes Survey, visit http://www.idahomethproject.org/About_Us/publications.php