Ira Terrell And Operation Peace Of Mind Challenge Youth To "Get An Education-Stay School"

Online, July 7, 2011 (Newswire.com) - West Dallas Community Church ended its annual Summer Camp on Friday, July 1, 2011, in partnership with Operation Peace of Mind (OPM) and ServeWest Dallas, with an awareness program promoting "Get an Education-Stay in School". The event featured retired NBA forward Ira Terrell, who spoke to the youth about his basketball career, which began at Dallas' Roosevelt High School, his college years at SMU and his years with the NBA. Terrell challenged the more than 100 youth to stay in school and get an education. "Getting an education will be the most important thing you can do" said Terrell.

Ugo Bear - The Community Builder, Operation Peace of Mind's Mascot, was also on hand and challenged the kids to build up their community by staying in school and staying crime free. OPM was founded in 2002 and has been actively involved in the community since 2008 and has served over 2500 students and 4500 hours in the DFW area. OPM focuses on leadership and crime prevention with programs that combine education and action to reduce teen victimization and involve young people in service within their communities.

"The programs develop self-esteem, leadership and citizenship skills engaging youth in action" OPM's Interim Executive Director Danese Griffith said. OPM provides information that will motivate young people to take safety seriously and to make their communities safer, thus making them better.

OPM's program addresses the issues that are most pressing for today's youth: bullying, drugs, gangs, handguns, conflict management, youth/police relationships and hate crimes. OPM offers 30 hours of classroom instruction and 20 hours of community service to its participants. Upon completion the "graduates" are considered ambassadors for OPM; they are then able to apply for an OPM college scholarship.

OPM seeks to tap and focus people's energy, talent and enthusiasm so they can participate in their communities as responsible citizens. "Studies show that young people are more likely to succeed if they have practical knowledge, cognitive and social skills, and meaningful opportunities in the community," Griffith said. "Many youth are exposed to factors that put them at risk and can make it difficult for them to develop the skills necessary for a productive, safe life".

OPM currently offers programs all over the DFW Metroplex, including Serve West Dallas, Dallas ISD and Fort Worth ISD. Our programs are free for nonprofits, churches, schools and individuals.

For information call 972-221-7202 or email [email protected]