Inuvik (Nov 17/06) - A community group hopes to reach out to both youth and adults with their Addictions Awareness Week events next week.

Howie Young is one of the co-ordinators of the events, which range from traditional feasts to presentations in schools.

"We want to create awareness about all addictions, not just alcohol and drugs," said Young.

Gambling and solvent abuse are also on the list of topics to tackle next week for Young and the group of co-ordinators.

Young said planning for the week began late this year, but he is confident that there will be adequate programming next week.

"We will be looking at making presentations to the schools," said Young.

RCMP Const. Jennifer Van De Walle is slated to speak to youth about the dangers of drug abuse and alcoholism.

Young said that reaching the older elementary school grades is important.

"The younger ones should be aware of what is out there, with drugs and other things," he said.

Young said a "drug kit" of visual aids presented by a health worker last year was a good tool for getting information across to youth.

A family night is also being planned, which will take place at Ingamo Hall. Young said the event is planned for Thursday night and would offer a meal and sober activities for youth and their families.

"The important thing is that we get whole families out, not just the young ones," said Young.

Young is still busy planning the week, ensuring that there will be a program for most groups in town.

"We want to reach the youth as well as adults who are fighting addictions," he said.

Combatting alcohol abuse is a heavy task, and Young said that underage drinking is a factor that makes the task a challenge.

"If we can stop the youth from getting the booze by cutting off their supply, we have done something," he said.

"Adults who are supplying the younger ones with alcohol need to stop."

A sober walk is also being organized by Ellen Smith, the alcohol and drugs specialist for the Beaufort Delta, working out of the hospital.

Smith said it's important to combat addiction to keep our community healthy.

"This is all to promote healthier living, without addictions," she said.

She said she is looking forward to the walk, which is planned for Sunday, Nov. 19.

The group plans on advertising the event schedule throughout town once it is complete.