ST. CATHARINES, ON, April 22 /CNW/ - Juno Award winner Mitch Dorge,
former drummer of Emmy-nominated Crash Test Dummies, is bringing his
In-Your-Face and Interactive presentation to schools in St. Catharines next
week as part of his Life Choices campaign aimed at Canadian youth.
    Dorge recently teamed up with The Co-operators and is taking his advocacy
for responsible decision-making to high schools across the country. He sought
out the leading insurance co-operative knowing that its emphasis on youth
empowerment meshes well with his positive message. "It was a natural fit,"
Dorge said of his partnership with The Co-operators. "They were looking for
innovative ways to engage young people and offer them alternative perspectives
on important decisions. This was a great opportunity for us to work together."
    The presentation itself is tailored to meet the needs of the
participating schools. Normally, students rotate in and out of the
presentation by grade level throughout the course of a half day. Topics
covered include drug and alcohol awareness, driving safety, and goal setting.
    Sponsored by The Co-operators, Agent Leah Cochrane understands the
significance Mitch will bring to the schools. "As a rock star and a very
charismatic individual, Mitch is just the type of person who can get through
to teenagers and make a real difference in their lives," stated Cochrane.
"That's why I'm thrilled to help bring Mitch to St. Catharines."
    Youth living in the information age are bombarded with more information
and controversy than ever before. Young Canadians are forced to make important
social and educational decisions every day, too often without the support of
positive and credible mentors. Mitch Dorge is out to shed some light on the
power of positive thinking and self awareness. The Co-operators is proud to
support his innovative and interactive campaign to engage Canadian youth.

    Mitch's schedule is as follows:

    April 23 9:00-11:00am - Governor Simcoe Secondary School, St. Catharines
    April 23 1:00-3:00pm - Lakeport Secondary School, St. Catharines

    About The Co-operators:

    Based in Guelph, Ontario, The Co-operators is a group of Canadian
companies offering home, auto, life, travel, group, commercial and farm
insurance, as well as investment products. With assets of more than
$7 billion, The Co-operators is owned by a group of Canadian co-operatives,
credit unions and like-minded organizations. It is well known for its
community involvement, and is listed among the 50 Best Employers in Canada.

For further information: Erin Stewart, District Coordinator, The
Co-operators, (905) 390-1229; Mitch Dorge, Cell: (204) 295-9636