CREW (Creating Real Energy Within)
An Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Program
From humble beginnings in early 2005, The Dr Edward Koch Foundation's 'CREW' program has evolved into a valuable community service for the Cairns region. Over a period of seven months, Cairns community members who were in treatment for drug and alcohol dependency, were supported in accessing recreational activities to help break the cycles of typical drug taking behaviours. Partners in the project include Queensland Health and the Drug Courts. Participation in exciting activities such as hot air ballooning, aero plane joyflights, water skiing, helicopter flights, 4WD motorbike tours and more, provided clients with positive drug free experiences guaranteed to give a natural high. The 2005 round of the CREW program has undergone evaluation and copies are available from the Foundation. Results from the evaluation are very positive, with direct links being identified between boredom or lack of access to socially acceptable pursuits and drug abuse in clients undergoing treatment.
As a result of the Foundation's successful efforts towards securing more funding for this project, the CREW program has commenced again in 2006. We were excited about the introduction of a new component to the CREW project. For 2006, clients were also supported to access sporting club memberships. This new direction, called SCAP (Sporting Club Access Project) is aimed at promoting a long term association with a sporting club. This will result in clients having exposure to a new positive group of peers and healthy exercise. Both the CREW and SCAP projects are free for participants and open to anyone 18 years and older who are currently accessing support services relating to their drug and alcohol use issues.