Como Gente Grande (Like Grown-Ups)

Puerto Rico holds the dubious distinction of having the highest rate of drug-related crime and violence of any American state or territory. The resulting disruption to families and communities means that many children take on adult responsibilities long before they are ready to do so. WRTU, San Juan, Puerto Rico, in partnership with the Center for Rehabilitation through the Arts (C.A.RE.), worked with a group of these at-risk adolescents, mentoring them and helping them produce a series of 13 one-hour programs called Como Gente Grande (Like Grown-Ups). A mixture of talk and music, the programs allowed the adolescent hosts to communicate their views on subjects ranging from family communication problems to the structure and organization of drug-dealing, from the effects of violence to the media's impact on youth.
The project's closing event, "Punto de Encuentro," drew more than a thousand people and featured entertainment and educational activities. A talent show focused on the wide array of Puerto Rican youth involved in performance arts. Exhibitors at the event included health service providers, community-based groups and law enforcement agencies. In an emotional ceremony including both young people and their parents, each producer involved in Como Gente Grande received an individual commendation and a medal for their efforts.
Contact: Louis Luna, Development Director, WRTU-FM, at 787-764-0000, extension 5728 or e-mail: lluna@rrpac.upr.clu.edu