In partnership with DEA Seattle Division's Operation Engage, Amy Danos, DEAEF Special Events and Fundraising Consultant, and Rick Zeitlin, DEAEF Youth Baseball National Director, embarked on a meaningful journey to Washington State to spearhead two Healthy Lifestyle events for students in December 2023.

On the initial day, around 75 students from the SOAR program at Shiloh Hills Elementary School, spanning from Transitional Kindergarten to 5th grade, engaged in three interactive activities. These included an Art class led by Holly Vittetoe, a Spokane art and science teacher, baseball lessons facilitated by Rick Zeitlin, and a Protect Your Brain session conducted by Amy Danos.

Marcus Picknett, DEA Seattle FD Community Outreach Specialist, kicked off the day with opening remarks, and Laci Larsen, Group Supervisor at Spokane DO/Coeur d’Alene POD, shared valuable information from the DEA.

During the art session, Holly Vittetoe guided students in creating a meaningful project where they traced their handprints on construction paper, illustrated their interpretation of a healthy lifestyle, and pasted the handprints on a poster. Meanwhile, Rick provided baseball instruction, including practice drills.

Amy started off with a name game using a hacky sack then delivered a special segment called Protect Your Brain, featuring videos created by Addiction Policy Forum. Students actively discussed the significance of leading a healthy lifestyle and engaged in activities like four square. The day concluded with Laci Larsen presenting a parents and caregivers session on Fentanyl, Know the Facts. The students enjoyed a pizza and brownies party and collecting goodie bags filled with items like cinch sacks, water bottles, and an inflatable ball.

Holly Vittetoe expressed, “The kids were so excited to do something new.”

The event was a hit, and Jaxon, a 4th grader, exclaimed, “I loved all of the teachers so much,” while Lamon, another 4th grader, added, “I hope you guys come back!” Bellmina, a 5th grader, joyfully exclaimed, “This is one of the bestest days ever.”

On the following day, DEA and DEAEF extended their reach to the Wellpinit Boys & Girls Club, a collaborative effort between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Snohomish County (BGCSC) and the Spokane Tribe of Indians. Here, they continued their mission of educating youth on the importance of staying healthy and drug-free, all while ensuring a fun experience.

Similar to the previous day, approximately 25 students, aged 6-12, participated in an art session led by Alicen McManamy, a Spokane art teacher, a baseball session led by Rick Zeitlin, and another Protect Your Brain session led by Amy Danos.

Amy reflected on the students‘ enthusiasm, stating, “You can really see excitement in their faces. Many of them were very eager to participate in sharing what a Healthy Lifestyle means to them.”

Laci Larsen provided opening remarks, and Alicen engaged the students in watercolor activities. Each student received a watercolor set, color pencils, and additional watercolor paper to continue their artistic endeavors at home. The day also included watching Protect Your Brain videos created by Addiction Policy Forum, team-building activities, and a few rounds of Simon Says.

The day included healthy snacks and concluded with goodie bags, leaving the students with smiles and lasting memories.

In the spirit of fostering healthy choices and positive alternatives, the collaborative efforts of DEA Seattle Division's Operation Engage, DEAEF, and dedicated educators like Amy Danos, Rick Zeitlin, Holly Vittetoe, and Alicen McManamy have left an indelible mark on the students in Washington State. These two days of engaging activities not only imparted valuable lessons on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying drug-free but also created a vibrant atmosphere where creativity, sportsmanship, and the joy of learning flourished. As the students left with smiles, goodie bags, and newfound knowledge, the echoes of their enthusiasm and appreciation linger, marking these events as catalysts for building brighter futures. The commitment to inspiring youth toward positive life choices continues to resonate, shaping a community where well-being and resilience thrive.