The Presentation

	Mary Haydal

Mary Haydal's story has become an inspiring message to thousands. She has spoken to junior high and high school students, parents, business people, community leaders and teachers in Ohio, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming and throughout Montana.

As a 14 year Executive Director of R.S.V.P. Mrs. Haydal used her skills to organize community efforts and has become a strong voice against drugs throughout her state. Her efforts include:

• Founding member of the Miles City Youth Coalition
• Trainer for the National Crime Prevention Council
• Served on the Region 9 Meth Task Force
• Member on the Montana Governor’s Task Force for Drugs and Alcohol
• National Spokesperson for MethPedia.org

Mary Haydal discusses drug paraphenalia with School Resource Officer Cory Birdwell (right) and Fergus Co. Community Service Supervisor Rod Johnson (left) during an evening community presentation in Lewistown, Montana.

Even with growing recognition and participation , Mary Haydal's goal remains centered in her program of group presentations. "I know it's all worthwhile, says Mary, "when someone in the audience asks for help, talks to a parent or makes a choice against a life of drugs."

Mary's message also focuses on breaking stereotypes that portray drug use as only affecting big cities. "Montana is number two in the U.S. for illicit drug use." And, says Haydal, "number two in suicide rates."

Mary's approach is uniquely honest and personal. She prefers no other introduction than “A mom from Miles City, Montana, who is going to tell you a true story about her family after her daughter chose drugs.”

A typical presentation consists of five age-appropriate programs designed for different aspects of the community:

1. Address Junior High School Students
2. Address High School Students
3. Community Leaders Luncheon
4. Drug Education for Teachers
5. What Parents Need to Know