Sgt. Yuriana Vasquez & Sheriff Gene Scarbrough at a C.H.A.M.P.S. graduation at Tiftarea Academy.

MISSION STATEMENT: "To provide an educational program for Georgia's youth, which provides guidance, and the skills, ability and knowledge to be safe, healthy and happy in preparation for a successful life."

C.H.A.M.P.S. is a twelve-week recommended program that targets fifth & sixth graders and is taught by deputies who have successfully completed the C.H.A.M.P.S. instructor training.  The program is dual and maybe shortened or extended to meet the needs of the Board of Education and the Sheriff.  This program was designed by the Georgia Sheriff's Association in 2003 to address the urgent challenges that today's youth encounter.

The C.H.A.M.P.S. program has been proven very effective across the state of Georgia and simply stands for Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety. This program promotes child participation in health activities that are drug and alcohol free, non-violent, and promotes safety. Some of the course programs include Alcohol Awareness; Drug Awareness; Choices and Consequences; Positive Alternatives; Vehicle Safety; and Seat Belt Usage.

The flexible, twelve-week program includes a weekly hour-long lesson from a C.H.A.M.P.S. certified deputy sheriff. Subject matter includes:

• Internet Safety
• Bullying (Gangs, Violence, Peer Pressure, Choices and Consequences)
• Alcohol
• Drugs (Cocaine, Marijuana, Methamphetamine, Prescription Drugs Abuse, Steroids)
• Outdoor Activities (ATV Safety, Hunting and Firearm Safety, Water Safety
• C.H.A.M.P.S. Project (Essay / Poster Contest)