By Sharon Tsang
Special to The Mirror

April 13, 1999

Children are never too young to learn about the dangerous realities of life.

So says the North York-based The Concerned Kids organization, a non-profit group that educates youths on the dangers of drug abuse, sexually transmitted diseases and peer pressure.

Using puppets, group members spread their message at elementary and middle schools throughout North York, Scarborough and Etobicoke.

The puppets are an effective medium of communication to children, because they are appealing and non-threatening, said Joyce Attis, executive director of The Concerned Kids.

"We have been very successful," said Attis. "The children learn about prevent techniques, making choices, peer pressure and self-esteem."

The response to the puppetry program has been tremendous. The program is booked up for the 1999-2000 school year. Programs are geared to different age categories.

Over the years, the organization has reached out to more than 255,000 young people.

While the need is there, funding can be a problem as The Concerned Kids is reliant on private donations, volunteers and fund-raising efforts.

The group is look to recruit more than 30 volunteers to be trained as puppeteers. Volunteers must commit half a day per week during the Sept. 1999 to June 2000 school year. If you would like to make a donation or become a volunteer puppeteer, call 416-636-1656 before Sept. 1.