The Town of Smithtown Horizons Counseling and Education Center, in partnership with the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau and Public Safety Waterways & Navigation, is encouraging Smithtown township middle and high school students to participate in a creative and fun initiative. The program will be held on Monday, August 23rd, 2021, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the pavilion at Hoyt Farm in Commack. The evening’s program has two components which students are sure to enjoy. The first art-centered component is designed to bring awareness to the issue of boating while under the influence. The second set of activities is aimed at helping to prepare students to “sail safely” into the new school year. Town Certificates of Community Service will be provided for participants in this community event.
“Innovative partnerships between multiple Town departments on these types of events that mix both information and fun are a pleasure to provide. Teaching our young people about the dangers of boating while intoxicated (BWI) from alcohol, marijuana or other drugs can help prevent tragedies from ever happening. Additionally, providing some basic, but important, school readiness skills will definitely help ensure a smooth transition back to school.” - Kelly DeVito, Horizons Youth Services Coordinator
Participants will create their own posters about the dangers of boating while intoxicated (BWI). The messages will raise awareness of the dangers of boating while under the influence of substances, such as drugs and alcohol. Students will also learn useful tips, and take part in several interactive and fun school readiness activities, including how to organize their backpack, and how to quickly open lockers. While some of the school readiness activities are specifically geared towards incoming middle school students, older students become the ‘teachers’ and will help guide younger program participants through the activities.
Registration is required for this free program, and it is expected to fill quickly. Please register ASAP by visiting either the Town of Smithtown Youth Bureau website or the Town of Smithtown Horizons Counseling & Education Center website, and click the registration link.