Rochester Elks, Spiderman bring drug-free message to Rochester Day Camp

Deanna Souza, Esteemed Lecturing Knight; Spiderman (Member Bill Lemelin) and Mark Guilmett, Past Exalted Ruler and Lodge Trustee. (Courtesy/Rochester Elks)

ROCHESTER - Rochester Elks brought a drug-free message of hope and resilience to the Rochester Recreation Day Camp on Friday.

During the event two officers and a member of the Rochester Elks distributed Drug Awareness material and bottles of water to local area youth attending the camp located at Spaulding High School.

Almost 50 young people were given complimentary bags of information and free bottles of water. Spiderman and his motorcycle were also in attendance to talk to the kids about the dangers of illegal drug use.

The Rochester Lodge #1393 transported the State Elks Drug Awareness Program trailer to the event. Greeting the children were Deanna Souza, Esteemed Lecturing Knight and Co-Chair of the Lodge Drug Awareness Program and Past Exalted Ruler, Lodge Trustee and Co-Chair Mark Guilmett.

Spiderman (Member Bill Lemelin) also came roaring in on his custom motorcycle for a visit with the kids.

Since 1982, the Elks have developed an effective, community-based drug prevention program by partnering with federal agencies including the Drug Enforcement Agency, Office of National Drug Control Policy, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and national organizations such as Pride Youth Programs. These partnerships ensure the Elks Drug Awareness Program addresses the leading drug abuse issues facing communities.

From a young age, the Drug Awareness Program asks kids to think about what it means to be drug free. Through the program's annual essay and poster contests, youngsters can express their feelings on rejecting peer pressure. At events, including Red Ribbon Week ceremonies, Elks and their friends serve as role models who show kids that living drug free is the way to be.

For more information about the Elks and their programs, visit www.elks.org