Jake Schmitt - Director of Youth Advocacy and Leadership writes about Being Adept

I’m really excited that I have recently taken on a bigger role in the Non-Profit Being ADEPT (Alcohol and Drug Education and Prevention Techniques). Through this organization I had the great opportunity to go back to my middle school, and through the course of a week, talk to all the kids about how running has been such an integral part of what makes me happy, let’s say, what makes me tick. The philosophy behind this program is to provide early education for the youth so that they can make better informed decisions as situations present themselves. Really empowering the children with concrete knowledge about how their brains, stomach, liver, memory, ultimately their whole bodies and psyche, are effected by early substance abuse. My role in the curriculum has been to facilitate discussions in an intimate classroom setting on more successful emotional boosters; like running!

It was a bit surprising the first day of the presentations when I wrote down on the board some of the reasons why people would start using drugs and drinking alcohol. The group of students began with the typical responses of peer pressure, being cool, and media; but, then unexpectedly I heard, stress release, depression, problems at home, and anxiety. From what I remember as a middle schooler my only real exposure to drugs and alcohol were the former of the reasons. It was a real eye opener to hear that all of our traditionally adult triggers are now creeping down into fifth graders’ minds. With this internal revelation I moved forward with enthusiasm and began my talk by asking the students what they do for “fun.”

“Baseball” “Basketball” “Horseback riding” “Reading” “Petting my dog” “Singing”

I’m sure most of you can imagine the list that these kids came up with, but what struck me and made me so excited was what I saw. Immediately, a pile of kids on the floor became an upright, at attention, ear-to-ear smiling, group of vibrant children. I seized the opportunity to mention this fact to all the kids, and to tell them to remember THIS feeling for when they are having a down, sort of lonely, kind of day. They had just taught themselves what tools they need to solve their own life problems. This is the way to feel better, go for a run, play baseball, take the time for yourself, because these are the tools you need as you grow up and deal with problems. It was another one of those phenomenal full circle moments that we, as athletes, grown-ups, professionals, love to capitalize on in our own lives.

I can absolutely remember dealing with major transition points in my life on very specific runs. Starting out on what seemed like the bleakest of endeavors and finishing with a much more streamlined and positive grasp on the situation. Circle complete. So, in sharing information with these children, I was able to come up with a concrete fact for my life. That run, that sometimes monotonous two-hour run, is exactly what I need for a clear head and progressive thinking. I wish unto everyone that they have their “running” “baseball” “horseback riding” as well, and if not, it’s time to explore!

Please visit www.beingadept.org to find out more information on this phenomenal project.

And also to see clips from our upcoming documentary visit our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Being-Adept/125313500869837