Mission:
To inform potential methamphetamine users about the risks associated with the drug and to substantially reduce its use.

About the Organization:
Founded by billionaire businessman Thomas Siebel, the Montana Meth Project is a large-scale prevention effort consisting of a research-based marketing campaign that graphically communicates the risks of methamphetamine, sometimes called "speed," to youth. The largest advertiser in the state, the campaign is reinforced by community outreach and public policy initiatives. In order to better understand Montanans' attitudes and behaviors related to methamphetamine, the project conducts extensive statewide surveys and focus-group research.

Current Programs:
The project's statewide public awareness campaign disseminates hard-hitting messages targeting youth between the ages of 12 and 17 via television, radio, billboards, newspapers, and the Internet. Its core message, "Not Even Once," speaks directly to the highly addictive nature of "meth." In addition, the project mobilizes community groups throughout the state to spearhead education and prevention efforts; provides speakers for schools, clubs, and other groups; and coordinates awareness efforts with local, state, and federal agencies.

Web Site:
The project's Web site provides findings from a 2007 Use & Attitudes Survey (120 pages, PDF), project-sponsored advertisements, facts about methamphetamine, information on where to get help, and publications. The site also contains information about the hour-long documentary Montana Meth, featured this year on HBO, and the biannual Paint the State campaign, a large-scale public art contest held statewide during even-numbered years. In 2006, teens from 56 counties created more than 660 works of anti-meth art.

Funding:
Initial funding for the Montana Meth Project came from the Siebel Foundation, which has contributed more than $12 million dollars to the project to date. This year, the organization must raise $5 million in private funds to receive a matching grant from the foundation, which in turn will enable it to become self-sustaining and continue its programs in 2008 and beyond.