What is POWER?
    The POWER program was developed by Casa staff with funding provided by the Arizona Department of Health Services. POWER is an acronym for Positive Outcomes Within Every Relationship. The program is funded as a Date and Acquaintance Rape Prevention Program, but also touches on topics such as healthy relationships, dating violence, sexual harassment, sexual abuse/assault, gender stereotypes, anger management, cultural diversity, and empowerment, to name a few. POWER is offered to students in grades 7 through 12 in Maricopa County. Casa’s Prevention Specialists have also facilitated POWER programs on college campuses, various community forums, and in Shelters for victims of abuse and violence. The POWER program varies in length, depending on the needs of the school and the amount of available time in the classroom.

Cool POWER Happenings….
    The POWER program has been very busy in past few months. Demand for the program is greater than ever, especially after a large amount of media exposure. In May, the POWER program was featured on NBC Channel 12 News, two articles from the Arizona Republic, and KTAR 620 AM’s Jay Lawrence Radio Show. The radio show provided a unique challenge, as listeners were encouraged to call in with questions. There are some very interesting people listening to AM radio on a Saturday night. For the remainder of the summer, the POWER team will focus on updating the current curriculum and continue to provide services in conjunction with various summer programs around the valley. Presentations are currently being scheduled for the fall semester of the 2001/2002 school year.