AFA is proud to partner with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) in sponsoring National Methamphetamine Awareness Day on November 30, 2006. DOJ and AFA want to educate as many people as possible about the dangers of methamphetamine. DOJ officials, including U.S. Attorneys, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, and DEA Special Agents, will be hosting educational presentations around the country, both in the community and on college campuses. The Department is also partnering with state and local law enforcement colleagues, community partners, and state and local leaders in this effort. AFA members are encouraged to contact their campus/community partners and local and state government officials to discuss possible activities for inclusion.

Methamphetamine abuse is on the rise, with increased abuse and initiation of use among traditional college-aged females (DOJ, 2006; NIDA 2005). AFA members and other key Higher Education partners can play a vital role in prevention through providing education, resources, and awareness.

The Meth Awareness website provides significant information for use by AFA members with your students, including research, downloadable power point presentation, videos, resources, and contact information for various collaborations and partnerships. The “Meth 101” resources are invaluable to AFA members, and as partners with the DOJ program, members are encouraged to use these resources on their campuses.

Here are a few suggestions for activities and outreach for Methamphetamine Awareness Day:

• Identify key potential partners for fraternities and sororities in prevention/awareness efforts: Health Center, Campus Police, Violence Prevention, Women’s Center, Campus/Community Alcohol/Other Drug Coalition, Neighborhood Associations, Student Affairs, etc.
• Contact your local and state government leaders (found on the Meth Awareness website) to inquire about previously scheduled and/or potential programs or initiatives (many state Governors are preparing proclamations and may partner with your campus and/or fraternities/sororities to present to the media if asked).
• Organize a campus/community roundtable with key areas (above) invited to discuss the issue; use the downloadable DOJ power point presentation and video testimonials as a basis for conversations and education.
• Contact your campus Health Center and/or peer education group and offer to partner with them on programming or educational initiatives.
• Contact your community alcohol/other drug coalition and encourage partnership on awareness and programming initiatives; ask if a specific task force exists regarding local “Meth watch” programs.
• Encourage fraternities and sororities with chapter houses in neighborhoods to sponsor and be involved in local “Meth watch” programs.
• Ask campus and/or community law enforcement to partner with fraternities and sororities on awareness, prevention, and education.
• Offer to sponsor/organize an awareness program with your Women’s Center.
• Advertise and sponsor a “finals study break” with healthy alternatives (some Meth abusers report using during times of stress, anxiety, and increased academic-focus times) while promoting Meth awareness.