LAREDO, Texas – Forty-one Laredo kids recently returned from their week-long Drug Education for Youth (DEFY) summer camp, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today. DEFY is a preventive program originated by the Department of Defense as a means to increase community participation and commitment to youth. DEFY works with 9-12 year-olds and helps develop character, leadership and confidence to engage in positive healthy lifestyles as drug-free citizens.  
 
The Laredo DEFY program has been in existence since 2001 thanks to the dedication of persons with the City of Laredo Parks and Recreation Department, the Laredo Housing Authority, Communities in Schools as well as Assistant U.S. Attorney Gracie Rodriguez Lindberg with the United States Attorney’s Office.

This year’s summer camp was held at the Boy Scouts of America Camp Huisache just outside of Laredo from Monday through Friday, July 23-27. Special thanks are extended to the Laredo Drug Enforcement Administration District Office, the U.S. Border Patrol, SCAN, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Laredo Lemurs Association, the office of Judge Oscar Liendo, the U.S. Army, the Laredo International Airport and Customs and Border Protection Air-Marine Branch for making presentations and providing other assistance during this weeklong effort.

The DEFY program includes two phases. Phase I involves a five-day summer camp where students are given opportunities to participate in such activities as swimming, tours and classes in leadership, discipline, anti-bullying and drug awareness. Mentors, who supervise the youth, also serve as positive role models to the DEFY students throughout the program.

Phase II of the program begins after summer camp and involves monthly Saturday sessions. Students attend activities which reinforce and build on their Phase I lessons. Activities during Phase II often include lessons or activities in drug resistance, self-esteem building, leadership, general social skills, team building and community service.  
 
The expenses for the DEFY program, including the camp lodging and meals, were sponsored by a grant from the Lamar Bruni Vergara Trust.