The youth survey indicates that 57 per cent of students feel Williams Lake has laws and norms favorable toward drug use ( risk ); 59 per cent of youth reported parental attitudes favorable toward antisocial behavior and drugs ( risk ); 53 per cent of students reported a low level of commitment to school ( risk ); 37 per cent of youth became involved in antisocial behavior and drug use at an early age ( risk ); and 48 per cent of students feel that there are rewards for pro-social involvement in the community ( protective ).

The youth survey is available at www.williamslake.ca

The report states that a significant number of students have high levels of protective factors ( 60 per cent ). Youth reported that schools are doing a very good job at providing both opportunities and rewards for pro-social involvement and that there are also lots of opportunities for pro-social involvement in the community.

"The CTC process and this report in particular gives us an objective method for identifying and prioritizing risk factors for youth in our community," says Burrill. "The data we have collected here gives us the most comprehensive picture that we have of the issues that affect our youth, and the strengths and challenges in our community. This will be an important guide for us in working together to create a better place to raise our children."

Results of the youth risk assessment study were presented to City council on Feb. 9 and to the School District 27 board on Feb. 25, says Sundahl. The complete report, including the youth survey, is available on the City web site at www.williamslake.ca by going to the city hall tab "what's new."