KFVS12 News & Weather Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Poplar BluffChange For the Better: Teen Council

Change For the Better: Teen Council

Change For the Better: Teen Council
By: CJ Cassidy

PERRYVILLE, Mo. - Keeping teenagers away from drugs and alcohol can prove to be a challenge for any parent, but a program called Teen Council in Perryville provides some help.

Folks involved in the group tell me the program is keeping young people busy and out of trouble.

When 17-year-old Dalton Franklin walked into the Perryville Chamber of Commerce recently, he had no idea his volunteer group would end up with an award.

"I know a lot of people that look up to me that go to my school, young people in the community," Dalton said.

The high school senior explains that's more rewarding to him than winning an award, any day.

As part of Teen Council, Dalton and his group of volunteers help clean up the streets of Perryville, make their town greener, and even spread cheer at Christmas time.

They also raise money that goes toward other charities in their community.

"In a relationship you give 60 get 40. You give as much as you can to make this place better for your kids, the future and for other people.  That's pretty much the idea," Dalton said.

Dianna Koenig spearheads Teen Council, supervising teens like Dalton.

She says projects for young people keeps them busy and away from the lure of sex, drugs and alcohol.

"There's lots of choices out there for teenagers, but the kids in our group choose to volunteer alongside their work and school, " she said.

Melissa Hemman with the Chamber of Commerce agrees.

By ranking first place in Missouri, Perryville's Teen Council sets the standard for other communities in the area.

"I think people realize there needs to be more for youth to be involved in their communities to keep them out of trouble.  In a small town there aren't a lot of things to do, a lot of activities, so it's a great way for them to network and have a good time with their friends," Hemman said.

As Dalton points out, he's never had any trouble having a good time.

"I can still prioritize that!" he laughed.

To learn more about Teen Council and find out how you can start a similar program in your community visit Perry County's Teen Council website.