Additional Resources

 


Plan Your National Drug Court Month Events

 

Most Drug Courts typically hold a commencement ceremony during National Drug Court Month. Nothing conveys the importance of Drug Courts quite like a commencement, and every Drug Court is encouraged to schedule one during National Drug Court Month.

However, there are many types of events you can schedule in addition to a commencement that will generate media interest in your program and foster community support. Here are a couple of events Drug Courts have successfully utilized in the past. Elected officials should be invited to attend all of these events!

  1. District Meeting with Member of Congress: Schedule a meeting with your Member of Congress while they are home for Constituent Work Week (May 1-4, May 21-25). Have your Drug Court judge and a graduate attend the meeting and educate your Members on why they should support Drug Courts, or thank them for their support (Click here for instructions).
  2. Community Clean-Up: Clean a park, street, highway or school. Invite past Drug Court graduates to join and encourage all court staff, law enforcement, probation etc to join in.
  3. Community/Alumni Picnic: These are perfect opportunities for your participants to meet and talk with past graduates, as well as a way to foster community support. Offer free food and invite the public to come learn more about their local Drug Court.
  4. School Assembly: Many Drug Courts do outreach in local schools. This is a great terrific for you participants to give back and spread a positive message to youth in the community.
  5. 5K Run: Another fun community event that could turn into an excellent tradition and fundraising opportunity.
  6. Softball Game: A couple years ago there was an amazing story about a softball game between local law enforcement and Drug Court participants. The game was covered by the local press and was a tremendous success.
  7. Donation Drive: This can be done all month long. Choose a local food bank or charity and help them raise donations. This can also be used to get local businesses involved with your court.
  8. Fundraiser: Many Drug Courts have associated non-profits. National Drug Court Month is an excellent time for a fundraising event.

 

 

Community picnics and service events are great ways for your Drug Court to celebrate National Drug Court Month and build local support!

 

 

Play ball! West Virginia Circuit Court and Drug Court Judge William Thompson at bat during Drug Court softball game.