UNITE McCreary County Coalition honored

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Members of the Champions UNITE McCreary County Coalition were honored for their anti-drug education and prevention efforts with youth during a celebration luncheon held May 5. Many years ago, Congressman Rogers recognized that for UNITE to be successful we needed to concentrate more on our youth. From the very beginning of their coalition, McCreary County has focused on drug prevention and education for youth and their families. The Champions UNITE group works to provide resources that create a positive environment, encourages academic success, and gives kids an opportunity for healthy, safe and drug-free fun. At the center of this effort is the Lord’s Gym, which operates 7 days a week. For their commitment to addressing substance abuse issues through youth and family programs, UNITE presents the Champions UNITE McCreary County Coalition with the Youth Empowerment Award. Accepting the award from Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Director Michael Botticelli, Corporation for National and Community Service CEO Wendy Spencer, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers and UNITE President/CEO Nancy Hale were Champions UNITE McCreary County Coalition Vice Chair Roger Owens and Lord’s Gym Director Braxton King.