D.A.R.E. Program

Since its inception in 1990, the Moline Police Department D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program has been teaching the basic core D.A.R.E. curriculum to all Moline sixth grade students in Moline School District #40, Seton Catholic School, and Temple Christian School. The D.A.R.E. Program is designed to help young people resist peer pressures involving drugs, gangs, and violence. Emphasis is placed on boosting the students' self-esteem. The students are taught ways to be in charge and respond in a confident manner when dealing with risky situations. Ultimately we want the students to be able to make decisions based on what is best for them and their families, the people that truly care for them. A culmination celebration is held at the end of the course with all graduating students receiving a t-shirt, certificate, and spirit card entitling the holder to discounts at participating businesses. The graduates are also treated to a pizza party. Approximately 700 Moline students graduate from the D.A.R.E. Program each year.

When D.A.R.E. started in Moline in 1990, Officer Ron Staes became the first officer selected for the position. It has seen many changes throughout the years, including expanding to three officers at one point. Currently Officer Michael Powell and Officer Kevin Cox teach D.A.R.E. in Moline.

In addition to teaching the D.A.R.E. curriculum, the D.A.R.E. Program holds many other activities to help our youth.

Moline D.A.R.E. hosts activities geared towards the elementary age children. Just before Halloween the D.A.R.E. officers pass out Beast Buster glow sticks to children in grades K-4. The glow sticks are visible at night so motorists can see the children while they are out trick or treating. The sticks are donated by local businesses through Skills Inc.

In June, D.A.R.E. along with Moline Conservation Club hold the annual Fishing Rodeo at Riverside Lagoon. Along with free food, many prizes are given away.

Also in June, a D.A.R.E. Leadership Camp is held at Camp Abe Lincoln. Students who graduate from D.A.R.E. during the current school year are selected to attend because of their leadership ability. The candidates spend an entire week at the camp learning conflict resolution, team building, and leadership skills. The camp is funded through private donations.

Money for the various activities is raised through the efforts of our non-profit organization, Moline D.A.R.E. Inc. The Moline D.A.R.E. board of directors is a group of volunteers who are dedicated to helping the youth in our community. Any parent, teacher, or caring individual is welcome to join to help with our events and fundraising efforts.

The D.A.R.E. Program continues to strive to provide our youth with the tools they need to resist drugs and gang involvement. Through education and the many positive alternative programs available, it is our sincerest hope that one day drug abuse and gangs will be a thing of the past.