Fatalities among Maine teenagers driving while drunk have decreased steadily during the months of May and June since Project Graduation began in 1980. In 1979, in Oxford County, there were seven alcohol and other drug-related deaths of young people during commencement season. According to Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School Project Graduation’s website, county residents met to address the problem, and by the following year Project Graduation was born. The model created in Oxford County was adopted as a major program initiative of the Division of Alcohol and Drug Education Services and it became a model for many high schools across the nation.

The 2017 commencement will mark the 24th year of Project Graduation at BRHS. At the beginning of the school year, the graduating class was presented with information about the dangers of drugging, drinking and driving, and with the guidance of the Project Graduation committee, co-chaired by Kari Babcock and Tammy Blackman, the seniors explored chemical-free alternatives to celebrating with drinking. This year, the seniors have chosen to go to the New England Outdoor Center for the weekend where they will participate in a variety of activities including whitewater rafting.

Like all Project Graduation events, students are checked for illicit substances before entry and are closely monitored during the event.  To date, 30 students out of 49 are committed to attending and Babcock is optimistic that more will sign up during the next few months.

Project Graduation is not a school-sanctioned event and receives no funds from the school. So far, those involved have raised $8,500 through the Fishing for Fashion Show during the Boothbay Harbor Fest, a community breakfast at Robinson’s Wharf and a hamburger stand during Men’s Night. The committee sent a letter soliciting donations to area businesses and has had a good response. “We are so thankful to all the businesses in the community for their generosity,” said Babcock. “It’s overwhelming how they go out of their way to support our young people.”  

The class hopes to reach its fundraising goal of $12,000 with the popular 50/50 raffles held during the girls and boys varsity basketball games. Spare change jars for the event can be found at the Irving Station, the Clipper Mart, Janson’s Clothing, and the Good-N-You service station. There is also a donation account at G & J bottle redemption center. Organizers are working on plans to host a Paint Party at the end of January.

“This special group of young people are full of life, energy and potential,” said Babcock. “They are our future teachers, scientists, fishermen, and entrepreneurs. They exemplify all that is right about our region. With the help of the community we can make their graduation weekend a safe and special one.”

To make a contribution, checks can be made out and addressed to Project Graduation, P.O. Box 562, Boothbay, ME 04537.  For more information, email Babcock at kbabcock@rsu1.org, or call 380-6938.