ELK RAPIDS -- Dozens of students in Antrim County were celebrated Thursday for their dedication to learning about the dangers of drugs.

The 66 students graduated from the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program at Lakeland Elementary in Elk Rapids.  

After several students read reports on what they've learned, Antrim County Sheriff Dan Bean and Deputy Bob Daunter, handed out certificates and t-shirts to the graduates.

The Antrim County Sheriff's Office brings the program to schools in the district and is marking its 23rd year in the County. Last year, 320 students took part in learning the D.A.R.E. message.

The program is solely supported by community support through fundraisers and donations.  On May 22, a golf outing fundraiser will be  held at Centennial Farms Golf Course in Bellaire.  All of the money raised will benefit the D.A.R.E. program in Antrim County.

For more information on the golf outing, hole sponsorship, or to donate door prizes, contact Deputy Bob Daunter or Joan Shanahan at the Antrim County Sheriff's Office, 231-533-8627 Ext. 3254.