Law enforcement officials, drug counselors, and state legislators agree—there has never been a drug as powerful, addictive, and quick to destroy lives and communities as methamphetamine. Meth is the top drug of choice and the #1 drug problem in Idaho. The financial and social consequences of Meth abuse are devastating. Meth is increasingly gaining popularity among Idaho's most vulnerable—teens and young adults.
- 80% of the child placements by Health and Welfare are directly related to drug abuse with Methamphetamine being the most prevalent drug of abuse
- 63% of Idaho felony drug court participants indicate that Meth is their drug of choice
- 52% of Idaho inmates directly attribute Meth use to their incarceration
- 1 in 36 Idaho men are in prison or on probation or parole - 75% of offenders with a drug problem say that Meth is their drug of choice
- The state of Idaho spends $66 million annually to house adult male inmates who admit to having a Meth problem
- Idaho ranks 9th in the U.S. for dependence or abuse of illegal drugs or alcohol among ages 12-17.
MISSION
WHAT IS THE IDAHO METH PROJECT?
By using consumer marketing and advertising strategies as the basis for its outreach, the Meth Project has been repeatedly cited as a powerful private-sector response to a devastating social problem. It was recently recognized by the White House as one of the nation's most effective prevention programs.
The goal of the Idaho Meth Project is to significantly reduce the prevalence of first-time methamphetamine use in Idaho. To achieve this goal, we have established a program that will be active in three areas: 1) Public Service Messaging; 2) Public Policy; and 3) Community Action.
Using the proven Meth prevention program developed by the Meth Project, we can dramatically reduce the negative impact of methamphetamine in Idaho. Based on the successful model of the Montana Meth Project, Idaho has launched a sustained, research-based public messaging campaign - including advertising, public relations, and website - to effect a substantial reduction in methamphetamine use among Idaho's youth. The goal of the Idaho Meth Project is to make an aggressive effort to ensure that the next generation is equipped with information to make the choice to remain Meth-free.
In Montana, where the Meth Project was first initiated, there has been a 72% decrease in workers testing positive for Meth , a 45% decrease in teen Meth use, and a 62% decrease in Meth-related crime since the campaign's launch in the state just three years ago.
On January 7, 2008 Governor Otter announced the official launch of the Idaho Meth Project at his State of the State Address. Recognizing the pervasive problem of Meth in Idaho, the Governor and First Lady adopted a proactive approach to ensure that Idaho youth truly understand the dangers of this horrific drug. We need your continued support to ensure this campaign sustains itself over time so we can educate our citizens about the dangers of Meth - Take Action Now!
APPROACH
Every day, people are faced with the decision to try Meth. Many perceive benefits in using the drug, but little-to-no risk. This is the root of the problem. The goal of the Meth Project is to arm teens and young adults with the facts about methamphetamine so they can make well-informed decisions when presented with the opportunity to try it. Simply stated, we will "unsell" Meth to the most vulnerable population: teens and young adults.
The Idaho Meth Project conducts extensive statewide surveys and focus group research to more thoroughly understand Idahoans' attitudes and behaviors related to methamphetamine. This research provides the foundation for our messaging programs.
MESSAGING CAMPAIGN
At the core of the Meth Project's effort is research-validated, high-impact advertising that graphically communicates the risks of Meth use. Idaho has launched a large-scale, statewide public messaging campaign and community action program unprecedented in power and influence in the state. Saturating TV, radio, billboards, newspapers, and the Internet, we reach 70-90% of young people 3-5 times a week with research-validated, hard-hitting messaging that graphically communicates the risks of Meth use and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Since this Idaho Meth Project is entirely funded through the generous contributions of private individuals, corporations, and foundations, we need your support - Take Action Now.
PUBLIC POLICY AND COMMUNITY ACTION
In addition to its public awareness campaign, the Idaho Meth Project mobilizes community groups throughout the state to spearhead education and prevention efforts, and coordinates with local, state, and federal agencies in an effort to reduce methamphetamine use among Idaho's youth.
IDAHO METH PROJECT MILESTONES
| January 2007 | Plans Announced to Form Idaho Meth Project |
| May 2007 | Executive Director Hired |
| October 2007 | Advisory Council Formed |
| September 2007 | Baseline Meth Use & Attitudes Survey |
| November 2007 | Web Site Launched |
| January 2008 |
Idaho Meth Project Launched During State of the State Address |
| Late 2008 | Meth Use & Attitudes Tracking Survey |
| Late 2008 | Refresh of Messaging Campaign |