Number of Participants: 60
Hours Donated: 6
Value of Time Served: $3,042
Event Type: Children & Youth
Sport: Schools
School: Yorktown High School
Date: February 14, 2024
Location:
2727 Crompond Road
Yorktown Heights, NY
USA
About:
Yorktown High School Varsity Athletes Against Substance Abuse (VAASA) –
The concept and mission of VAASA is based on the philosophy that student athletes are given a great deal of status and serve as role models for other students. By committing to being alcohol and drug free and excelling in the areas of athletics, academics and leadership, the student athletes offer positive peer influence to younger students. VASSA members must commit to a “No Use” pledge in order to be members and are asked to share first-hand experiences including why they have chosen to be alcohol and drug free and how they stay that way.
VAASA members undergo an application process in order to participate in the club. Within their application is information about school and community activities that they participate in, an essay, and a coach recommendation. Students then meet with the advisors individually to have a confidential conversation about their experience and exposure around substances and what strategies they use to remain substance free. Next members attend a group training session.
Following training, VAASA members are eligible to attend our trip to the middle school once per quarter to give a presentation to the 8th grade health classes. During the presentation, students share their reasons for being substance free and strategies they use. They also hold some interactive activities and answer 8th grade students’ questions about life in high school.
Any Yorktown High School (New York) varsity athlete can apply to our VAASA Club.