Get Ready for the Amazing Race!

– Heidi Walsh, Mustang News

The Mustang News had the opportunity to speak with Penelope Bruce, a leader from TADD, also known as Teens Against Drinking and Drugs, about the ‘Amazing Race’ taking place at Medford City Hall.

What can you tell me about the Amazing race and how to I get involved?
We are looking for volunteers (youth and adult) for the day of the race. But mostly we would like to see people turn out to be in the race. There is a five dollar fee to run in the race but it goes to a great cause, helping Team TADD West. Come and run the Amazing Race, be a participant. The entrance fee for each participant is a $5 donation to our group.

Come be a volunteer in the Amazing Race. We need volunteers to help set up, break down and work at our checkpoints the day of the race. Volunteers will receive community service hours

How will you use our funds from this fundraiser?
– 30% Conference Fund
– 20% Donation to West Medford Community Center (our Home)
– 30% TADD Field Trips – (example museums, visit other community groups)
– 20% T shirts

What is your role in the TADD and the Amazing race?
I am the Lead Adult Advisor for Team TADD West. I am also the City of Medford and Medford Health Matters Underage Drinking Prevention Coordinator. I have been working with this group in some capacity since September 2008 and Lead Adult Advisor since April 2009. My role as Underage Drinking Prevention Coordinator helps the group connect to other community groups such as the police, seniors and businesses. We are always looking for opportunities to connect with new members of the community.

Who are the leaders at Medford High School involved with TADD?
Malcom Alexandre, Crystal Chandler, Michael Henderson, Jermaine Henderson, Nylah Bolden, Danny Sullivan, Ter’rez David, Andres Farah

What is the message of TADD and how does the Amazing race tie in?
Team TADD West says it best, “This race is being held to raise awareness of underage drinking and drug abuse prevention while raising funds to benefit our group. This race is targeted towards teens in Medford to provide them with an alternative to destructive decisions over April vacation. We are trying to create a stronger, united community by hosting this race. By participating in our race you will be supporting a group that strives to change the social norms surrounding underage drinking and drug abuse prevention. Also, this will show the community that you care and support our newly formed group. You will be included in our articles to local newspapers as an asset to our goal in this race.”

When will the Amazing Race take place? What does the amazing race consist of and where will the race take place? Can you describe the activity for me?
April 21st from 10:30 to 3:00.

Start and finish line is at City Hall in the Council Chambers. The actual race begins at 11:00am and will end by 2:00pm with an awards ceremony at the end of the day. There will be multiple checkpoints with clues through Medford Square, these clues will lead to an activity. Once the team has completed the activity then they move on to the next checkpoint and clue. Until they reach the finish line.

Why is TADD being promoted at Medford High School? What are the hopes of the organization and what do they wish to change with TADD and the Amazing Race?
Team TADD WEST, aside from the message in the previous question, wants to spread their enthusiasm about assets in their community. When parents and other adults recognize that a youth is a valuable asset in their family and community everyone benefits. Youth feel more empowered to make healthy and safe decisions about their behaviors and actions.

Who should I speak to if I wish to get involved?
Penny Bruce 781-393-2560, pbruce@medford.org