Interactive Event Stresses Positive Decision Making

Hundreds of area teens got a dynamic lesson about the consequences of bad decisions on Monday with a program that aims to keep kids away from a life of crime.

Fire trucks, police cars and ambulances raced into Banker’s Life Fieldhouse responding to a mock crash scene involving a teen who had been drinking and driving. 

The dramatic performance was part of the “Your Life Matters” Initiative led by Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard, who says witnessing the consequences can make an impact.

"When they see the police come in, when they see people being driven off in ambulances, when they see the casket, they realize this can really happen to me," Ballard said.

Around 1,500 high school students participated in the second annual Decision House event, part of Ballard’s campaign to reduce violence in Indianapolis.  Indianapolis Police Chief Rick Hite says the program hopes to reach young people before make a bad choice.

"You can’t solve a crisis in a crisis, what we want to do is help young people make right choices," said Hite. "We don't want someone to make a decision that might impact them and change their whole life."

The event also included an interactive expo where kids get a closer look at a jail setting and forensic evidence. 

Around 40 local groups were on hand to connect with students, providing information and resources on other serious issues like bullying and suicide.