For immediate release
March 14, 2007
CONTACTS: Tod McKay, Vice President Communications
United Way of Treasure Valley
336-1070 ext. 109, tmckay@unitedwaytv.org
Debbie Field, Director of Drug Policy
Office of the Governor
334-2100
United Way of Treasure Valley announces partnership with the Idaho Meth Project
Boise, Idaho – United Way of Treasure Valley is pleased to announce a partnership with the Idaho Meth Project, the group behind Idaho’s efforts to significantly reduce the prevalence of methamphetamine use in the state. The partnership agreement allows both organizations to work closely together on substance abuse recovery and prevention issues.
Meth is the No. 1 illegal drug of choice in Idaho according to state law enforcement officials. It contributes significantly to crime in Idaho and costs millions in lost productivity and increased jail and prison expenses.
The Idaho Meth Project’s goal is to raise $2.8 million in private contributions for a statewide anti-meth media campaign that will feature TV, radio, print and billboard advertising.
United Way of Treasure Valley is working on improving lives in three priority areas – helping children and youth achieve their potential, promoting financial stability for working families, and improving people’s health. In the area of health, United Way has become a lead organization associated with efforts to build and establish a community detox center in the Treasure Valley through its Substance Abuse Recovery and Prevention Initiative. The Idaho Meth Project provides an opportunity to become involved in the prevention aspect of this initiative.
The partnership, which includes free office and meeting space for the Idaho Meth Project, also will save thousands in administrative costs. “When you consider all of the fees and costs associated with creating a separate non-profit, tax-exempt organization, this partnership could save up to $500,000,” said Sally Zive, United Way’s President and CEO. “We would much rather see this money go towards helping solve Idaho’s drug problems than pay for administrative fees and legal costs.”
For more information about the Idaho Meth Project, phone 208/334-2100.
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