R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center

Prevention

Dr. Carnell Cooper named a CNN Hero for his violence prevention efforts. Plus, see video.

The Violence Prevention Program (VPP): Program Components

PHAT-Promoting Healthy Alternatives for Teens

David - Native Son and Femi - The Dri Fish perform at a PHAT event.

Promoting Healthy Alternatives for Teens currently operates as an (single session) after school /weekend program incorporating tours of the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) - Shock Trauma Center (STC), testimonials of victims and perpetrators of violence, creative self-expression through spoken word poetry theatre and role playing exercises.

The program is designed to expose the youth to the positive and negative consequences associated with decision-making. PHAT programs are interactive in nature as the youth are introduced to a variety of hospital staff and are encouraged to make inquiries regarding their respective professions.

The purpose of the PHAT tours is to:

Encourage the youth to think about their futures
Identify healthy outlets for managing their feelings
Practice adaptive coping techniques
Recognize their strengths
Feel encouraged about making positive changes

The PHAT program works exclusively with The 5th L - creative poets performing spoken word theatre, creative poetry and role playing activities to stimulate the youths awareness of risk-taking behavior associated with violence. The 5th L has a passion for artistic expression and with their words they inspire in a positive way. Their motto, ‘never plead the 5th, but always speak the truth’ is evident in their writings and performances.

Femi Lawal AKA The Dri Fish of the 5th L is a resident of Baltimore City but was born in London, England and raised partially in Nigeria. The Dri Fish has been performing spoken word since 1995, at the same time altering the destructive thinking and decision making patterns of people with his candid social critique offered by his lyricism. Femi will provide leadership for the poetry workshops as well as coordinate any performance. He is actively involved in community, youth and parenting issues and performs throughout the country.

David Ross AKA Native Son of the 5th L is a resident of Baltimore City and a poet. David has been humbly inspiring audiences through exquisite lyrics since 1997. This award-winning artist delivers a captivating performance - enlightening listeners on cultural, educational, family, political, self love, social, and spiritual issues. David will also provide leadership for the poetry workshops as well as coordinate spoken word performances. He is a Coppin State graduate with a Bachelors degree in English. He performs weekly at different venues speaking out on issues relating to violence, education, and children and youth.

For more information, visit http://5thl.com

This page was last updated on: October 13, 2009.

For all patient information, please call 410-328-9284.