The Rockwell Project is a program targeted at teens and other young adults in the hopes of deterring underage drinking. It highlights the experiences of a very dedicated individual - Jim Rockwell.

Jim Rockwell was born in Long Beach, California and raised in nearby Orange County, in a value-based and educationally-driven home by his mother and father. As he made the transition to becoming a teenager, Jim's lifestyle and values changed, causing him to lose concern for the direction his life was taking until it was too late. After a day of excessive alcohol use and truancy from school, Jim was in an auto accident that almost ended his life at the age of 16.

A near head-on collision with another driver was followed by a six-week coma and seven months of recuperation. Doctors informed Jim's parents that he would never regain his speech or motor skills. However, after years of rehabilitation and continuing programs of therapeutic exercise, he can now live independently. Unfortunately, Jim will never drive a car, and his motor skills and sight are impaired for life.

Jim Rockwell has spoken to over 300,000 students nation wide about his experiences and the effects of underage alcohol use and abuse. Within Mr. Rockwell's presentation, he discusses the metamorphoses he encountered as a youngster leading up to the accident - from an extracurricular schedule including musical and athletic involvement to a lifestyle centered around cutting school to "party" with his new friends. Jim has made it his mission to stress the importance of family guidance, responsibility and valuable lifestyle choices.

(biography reprinted by permission of Stephanie Strategos, NBWA)