Listen to Raini's 'Allgood News'
At just 16, Raini Simpson will tell you ...she's had a normal childhood, her parents are married and financially good. She gets along with most everyone and she's on a fast track to a great High School Career at Fruita Monument and a path to college is in her future. She likes art and theater ...and in the hallways?...You'll catch her in conversations with a varied group of kids...she is a free spirit who walks to the beat of her own drum.
So why would such a grounded, carefree young girl want to get the word out about Meth in Mesa County? You just have to realize ...that even the most well adjusted kids...realize, it's a problem.
Raini thinks drugs are pretty stupid. 'Doesn't make a lot of sense', she'll tell you...and she'll also tell you, very candidly...that seeing some close relatives lose it all...because of Meth addiction...is a major factor in her deciding to 'Do something". That something?...Raini is one of just 15 High school Students across Colorado picked to be a part of the Inaugural 'Colorado Meth Project'. A program designed with kids in mind to get the message... to kids. That message? 'Not even once'. The idea not to even try one of the most addictive and destructive drugs out there.
A teacher recommend that Raini apply, and out of thousands of applicants...she was chosen. After an initial meeting in Denver with her new partners...the yearlong process begins of 'getting the word out'...in her community. How will she do that? Well, she's thinking a few assemblies, a play...something that showcases her creative talents in order to get the message out. It doesn’t' hurt that she has some "Real' life experience to draw from. Members of the Colorado Meth Project are encouraged to just be themselves while promoting abstinence when it comes to meth...or any other drugs.
Is she optimistic? That would be an understatement...this self-assured, shy looking girl, is motivated, upbeat and real. And when you're trying to talk to kids about right and wrong...you had better be genuine. And Raini...she might just have the right stuff.
Her parents are proud of their daughter...but for Raini? It's seeing some relatives getting 'clean' and getting their lives back together...that makes her realize there is hope...and her message can have a happy ending.
To find out more about the Colorado Meth Project, you can check them out of Facebook or go to their Website:
Coloradomethproject.org
Here is Raini's Allgood News...