Underage and Binge Drinking

As far as solutions go, there is something for everyone.  Read the list below and click on individual projects to get more detailed information.  Most of the projects described here incorporate strategies that have been researched and are proven to be effective in making measurable change.  If a community wants to see real change, the best hope is to have a combination of activities going on simultaneously.  As you begin, seek partners who are interested or already involved in prevention and work to coordinate your efforts.

Volunteer for Compliance Checks – project conducted by local police with student volunteers to determine whether stores are checking IDs

Conduct Alcohol Purchase Surveys – surveys done by students and community volunteers to determine whether stores are checking IDs

Organize Law Enforcement Recognition Events – students, campuses and community members officially recognize the work done by law enforcement in their efforts to keep the campus and community safe

Present at Roll Call Briefings – students and community members present briefly during officer shift changes to encourage law enforcement to enforce underage drinking and drunk driving laws and thank them for their efforts

Design Presentations and Visuals to Raise Awareness
– students or community members create and deliver a presentation on healthy, legal choices for residence halls, Greeks, athletes, freshmen or other key groups

Clean Up the Campus - assessing the campus environment (dorms, advertising, sponsorships) and work to minimize or eliminate alcohol and alcohol advertising

Promote or Improve Campus Policies – students, administration, community members and law enforcement work together to review existing campus policies and local laws then improve them or work to promote them

Create Campus & Community Partnerships – students, administration, parents, law enforcement and community members can all join forces to mobilize citizens seeking change or join existing coalitions to address the unique needs found in a college community

DRUNK DRIVING:
2.1 million students between the ages of 18 and 24 drove under the influence of alcohol last year (Hingson et al., 2002).