A local foundation on June 14 announced plans to create a department to combat drug use in the community. “Drug abuse is a national concern, spreading to all facets of our society at such a degree that it almost seems insurmountable,” said Richard Snyder, founder and president of The Snyder Foundation. “Silvercreek isn’t immune to this disease, and our foundation felt it would be foolish to sit on the sidelines during the most consequential crisis of our time.” The new division of the foundation will be called the Department of Anti-Drug Services, or DADS. It will utilize a multi-faceted approach to educate youth of the dangers of drug use. “Every member of the board, we’re all fathers,” Snyder said. “This inspired us to put an emphasis on education so we can nip this problem in the bud. If we can stop it before it even starts, that would be an amazing thing.” In this effort, The Snyder Foundation has partnered with Silvercreek Independent School District to implement educational assemblies and after-school programs to inform local adolescents and keep them off the streets.
“We’re excited to work with The Snyder Foundation to ensure the youth of Silvercreek have an eventful present and a bright future,” Joshua Donahue, SISD spokesperson, said. “DADS is going to do important work that will prove beneficial for the community. We are proud to facilitate and be a part of it.” Thanks in part to an anonymous donation, DADS will also provide services to addicts on their way to recovery. The donation has allowed for the opening of a sober living house, which will be complete with on-site medical and counseling services. Snyder said he hopes to expand this portion of DADS if it yields positive results. “While our foundation feels it’s important to protect children from this epidemic, we knew we had to do something to help people who are currently suffering,” he said. “Data shows that sober living homes can be a valuable tool for addicts hoping to transition back into society. Though we’re starting with just one home, we’re hopeful that we will be able to provide people with the assistance they need to put them on the road to long-term sobriety.”
