In late 2009, Rashada Robinson, Miss Teen Diva 2009, approached the Miss Teen Diva Pageant Committee with her ideas about drug abuse among her peers. Then the collective made contact with Mrs. Maris Hodge-Wright, Manager of the Sandy Lane Center and Mrs. Deborah Hodge, Director of Student Life & Special Events of H. L. Stoutt Community College, to see how both entities could work together to address addiction among the HLSCC student population.

After some planning, Rashada’s idea came alive on Monday, February 22, 2010 at the HLSCC Auditorium where over 50 students came together to learn more about addiction to drugs, alcohol, sex and other vices. After the opening prayer was given by Mr. Theodore James, Rashada welcomed the students and shared with them her inspiration behind this project. According to Rashada, “It is also my duty to help raise issues and growing concerns when it comes to our youth. One big issue that has been concerning me is the use of drugs by our youth on this very campus.”

The Sandy Lane Center representatives, Mrs. Hodge-Wright, Mrs. Kishann Cupid-Braithwaite, Mr. Elroy ‘Balja’ Thomas and Mr. Kelvin Fahie then presented an interactive session where attendees were educated and enlightened on the types, causes and repercussions of addiction. Personal accounts were given by Mr. Thomas and Mr. Fahie about their recovery from addiction and participants were also able to ask questions. The session ended with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to Mrs. Debra Hodge and to the Sandy Lane Center representatives.

The Miss Teen Diva Pageant Committee continues to foster its community involvement by joining forces with other organizations to assist persons and also to raise the awareness of important issues.