The Whitehall Borough Police Department D.A.R.E. Program began in the fall of 1993 with classes at Whitehall Elementary School, Saint Gabriel School and Harrison Middle School. The program initially targeted 5th and 6th grade with two uniformed instructors. Officer Bruce M. Marchetti and Officer Dave Artman entered the schools with the following goals:
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To equip elementary school students with skills for resisting social and peer pressure to experiment with tobacco, drugs, and alcohol.
To encourage students to enhance their own self-esteem and develop positive alternatives to substance abuse.
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Utilize teachers, parents, and community leaders when assessing risky decision-making at school and home.
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To assist students with a working solution when they are confronted with violence, anger and bullying by other students.
Between 1993 and 2001 over 6000 students have participated in the program with very positive results.
The Whitehall Borough Police Department is attempting to lead the way with new initiatives that expand outside the usual D.A.R.E. programs. Red Ribbon Week Bowling, The D.A.R.E. Hockey Team, The D.A.R.E. Corner Article, and for the last two years in conjunction with Baldwin Police Department "Cop Talk" at Baldwin High School.
The most recent initiative is a "TEEN CENTER" for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders in the Baldwin Whitehall School District. The Teen Center is held once a month starting in October and runs through April. Dancing, Bingo, Movies, Ping-Pong, Basketball, Volleyball, Archery, and special events such as Sumo Wrestling, Wall Climbing, and the ever favorite, Bungee Run.
In the years to come the Whitehall Borough Police Department will continue to strive by developing new ways to conquer the drugs and violence that menace our children.
If there are any questions or comments concerning the D.A.R.E. Program, you can direct your inquires to:
Officer Bruce M. Marchetti
Whitehall Police Borough Police Department
412-884-1100
or E-mail
