> School Presentations
The Graffiti Program has developed a presentation for children to address the widespread problem of graffiti. This presentation provides
curriculum related information, outlines the
effects of graffiti on society, discusses the
consequences of graffiti vandalism, and suggests some very important solutions and alternatives to this form of expression. This presentation is geared toward reaching children in grades four through eight and includes an engaging activity.
-Preventative Measures
Studies show that youngsters involved in graffiti vandalism start as early as 10. Our approach is "proactive" and "preventative", emphasizing that graffiti is destructive and has a negative impact on Red Deer's neighborhoods and quality of life. Most importantly, the program aims to instill in children a respect for their community and a desire to make a difference their own neighborhoods. It also encourages a feeling of pride and ownership in the school that they attend.
-Presentation
During the 50-minute presentation, students listen to a speaker and participate in an activity. They then engage in a question and answer forum that recaps the main issues covered in the presentation. Other issues addressed include: defining and identifying graffiti, crime and punishment, costs incurred, negative impact on communities, alternatives to graffiti activity and vandalism, reporting graffiti, and volunteer efforts.
-Additional Information
For further information regarding the Graffiti Presentation, call the Graffiti Program at (403) 340-8696 or e-mail
graffiti@downtownreddeer.com.
> Day Camp Presentations and Activities
Kids aged 8-13 learn about choices they can make to have fun without getting involved in graffiti activity. A variety of graffiti related activities and games are used to instill the message that graffiti affects everyone in the community, even kids.
> Help for Parents
A list of resources for the parents of graffiti vandals.
If you think your child or someone you know may be involved in graffiti or gangs, the following resources can assist you.
-Contact your child's school to find out if your child's teacher or principal has noticed your child's involvement in any of the above activities and if the school offers assistance with these issues.
-Police Department's DARE Program-343-5500
-Crisis/Support Line-Parent Help Line-1-800-668-6868
-City of Red Deer Family & Community Support Services-342-8103
Graffiti Abatement:
The Graffiti Program operates
a removal and volunteering effort during the summer months. Volunteers are a critical part of our effort to keep the city free of the blight caused by graffiti vandalism.
Our crews will remove graffiti for free, but need a written, signed
consent form from the property owner or other responsible party. The Graffiti Program is a non profit organization, so if a business supplies the color match, the process is quick and painless. Available colors are limited and may not precisely match existing surfaces. The program relies on donations of paint and supplies from local businesses and interested parties. Property owners also have the option of picking up the necessary graffiti remover chemicals or paints for the Graffiti Abatement Program. A signed
release form is also needed.
Contact Us:
Graffiti Program
Phone: (403) 340-8696
Fax: (403) 340-8699
E-mail:
graffiti@downtownreddeer.com
abatement as the principal tools. The program runs from May to August with a view to expand as participation and funding increase. The main sponsors of the program are the City of Red Deer, General Paint Corporation.
