CAN’s success is built on four foundational ideas. We believe that each of these ideas has to be implemented in order to successfully change the attitudes of a community’s youth. See below for a description of each building block, along with some of the things we have done in Cody to implement them.
Student Management
Students understand each other better than adults. Because each C.A.N. program is managed by a group of students, all the power of Positive Peer Pressure is put to good use. This is an essential component. Without student management, a program like C.A.N. would not be as effective.
Recognition
C.A.N. works because students are acknowledged and rewarded for making good decisions. By providing incentives, arranging support from community businesses, and organizing events for members only, the C.A.N. program demonstrates the real life benefits of making positive choices!
Accountability
To receive the benefits provided through your C.A.N. program, members must actually be making consistent positive choices. There MUST be a mechanism to hold members accountable to the membership pledge or it becomes meaningless. Without accountability - in the form of requesting a drug test and others means - a program like this cannot be effective.
Community Support
Support for positive choices must extend beyond school walls. By enlisting support from the local community, C.A.N. ensures that students will find recognition for their drug-free lifestyle throughout their daily lives. This is a symbiotic relationship; entities that support local youth will also get recognition and increased attention from the local community. C.A.N. and Community Support is a winning combination!