Underage Drinking in our Community:  Fact or Fiction?

Underage drinking is a serious problem among youth.  Often the question asked is “What can I do?”  To get answers, parents and community members are invited to attend a Community Forum, “Underage Drinking in our Community:  Fact or Fiction?”.  It will be held on Thursday, April 3, from 6:30 – 8:30 at the Rancho Bernardo High School Performing Arts Center. 

The Community Forum is a team effort on the part of Poway Unified School District’s Student Support Services Department and the Safety Wellness Advocacy Community Coalition (SWACC).   The event is funded by a federal grant, Reduction of Alcohol Abuse in Poway (RAAP).  

The forum’s events begin with exhibitors who will be in the foyer of the Performing Arts Center to answer questions and share information.  Following the exhibitors, the program will continue with Chris Welsh, presenting “Golden Moments, Empty Chair.”  Chris is a trial lawyer for the State of California Department of Transportation.  A large portion of his job entails investigating drunk driving accidents and working closely with the victims’ families.  He has seen the devastating impact of accidents involving teenage drivers, and the patterns of alcohol use that increases the risks. 

Following Chris Welsh’s presentation, a panel of professionals who work with cases involving alcohol, teens, and their families, will give the audience a chance to ask questions and share information.

Alcohol is the most abused substance among America’s youth, ages 12-20.  If you would like to learn more about what you can do for your children and the youth in our community, please attend the Community Forum on April 3^rd.