Real Problems, Real Solutions

Galena, AK, 1998

The project began with the simple goal of giving local youth a voice in helping themselves overcome the problems of drug and alcohol abuse. In groups, they recorded dialogues that came from a series of discussions, with the hope of making the community aware of how they see the issues and what solutions they would like to see. Student groups from five area villages talked about substance abuse and possible alternatives. The information they gave was surprisingly real and raw. They didn't hold back on what they saw and what they wanted. It was apparent that they wanted to be heard and wanted this issue to be dealt with. Their only hesitation was that it had been talked about so much by other community organizations with no real action taken; why should they talk about it again? This concern was raised over and over in the discussions, and aired over KIYU.

During the second part of the project, rather than travel to the villages, we brought these student leaders to the KIYU studio for discussions. In each village there were 2 or 3 students who were the most outspoken and had great ideas. We flew them to Galena for a weekend retreat where we tried to take the discussions to the next level, going into more depth about the problems and realistic alternatives. These eye-opening discussions made up our broadcast component.

Comments from the community suggested that people heard the youth voices, and were willing to taking them seriously. The kids developed realistic ideas for regular events in their communities, and were put in touch with partners who could help turn their ideas into realities. A dialogue was begun, making parents and community leaders aware that the children are watching and do know what is going on around them. The discussions have also made people aware that the youth care about these problems, and want to have more done about them than simply talk. As the programs concluded, we hope that these discussions will continue within families and the community.

Contact Information

Real Problems, Real Solutions
Danny Sparrell, Operations Director
Tel: 907-656-1488

Yukon-Koyukuk Mental Health
Caroline Clarke, Program Director
Tel: 907-656-1617

Awards:

KIYU Round One
Goldie Award, Service to Children category — Alaska Broadcasters Association