April is Alcohol Awareness Month

Pledge for Life Partnership Gears Up for Spring Events

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers of alcohol misuse and promoting responsible drinking habits. This month-long campaign aims to educate the public about the risks associated with alcohol consumption, particularly among underage individuals, and the crucial role parents play in preventing underage drinking.

Underage drinking remains a significant public health concern in the United States. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), approximately 20.1% of adolescents report drinking by 8th grade, and about 32.7% report being drunk at least once by 12th grade (1). These statistics highlight the urgent need for effective prevention strategies to address underage drinking.

Research from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that underage drinking has declined over the past two decades. Between 2002 and 2020, current drinking among 12- to 17-year-olds decreased from 34.6% to 18.5%, and among 18- to 25-year-olds, it declined from 77.9% to 69.5% (2). Despite this progress, the numbers remain concerning, and continued efforts are necessary to sustain this positive trend.

The Importance of Parental Involvement

Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children's attitudes and behaviors toward alcohol. Studies show that adolescents whose parents have restrictive attitudes regarding underage drinking are less likely to engage in risky drinking behaviors. High-quality parent-child communication, including the establishment of strict alcohol-specific rules and parental monitoring, is associated with reduced levels of alcohol consumption among adolescents (3).

The Iroquois-Kankakee Regional Office of Education's Life Education Center and Pledge for Life Partnership bring information and support to students and parents to help address underage drinking. The organizations emphasize healthy choices to all ages, and help parents understand that they have great influence over how their children approach decision making regarding substances. Parents who engage in open and honest conversations about the risks of alcohol use can help their children develop healthy attitudes toward drinking while minimizing its risks.

As we observe Alcohol Awareness Month this April, it is essential to recognize the critical role parents play in preventing underage drinking. By fostering open communication, setting clear expectations, and providing support, parents can help their children make informed decisions about alcohol use. Together, we can create a safer and healthier future for our youth.

Exciting Community Events for Healthy Living and Prevention

The spring of 2025 is packed with community events, brought to you by the Pledge for Life Partnership and local businesses and organizations, and dedicated to promoting healthy living, mental wellness, and substance abuse prevention. Here’s a look at some of the key dates and activities:

1. YMCA Healthy Kids Day (April 26, 2025) The YMCA will host its annual Healthy Kids Day, a community event that encourages children and families to engage in fun, healthy activities. The event is designed to inspire kids to stay active and make positive choices for their health. Families can look forward to interactive games, activities, and wellness tips aimed at building a healthier future for local youth.

2. Prescription Medicine Take Back Day (April 26, 2025) Prescription Medicine Take Back Day at Northfield Square Mall, organized by the Youth Advisory Council and Kankakee Area Metropolitan Enforcement Group. This event offers community members a safe way to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications, helping to prevent misuse and protect public health.

3. Pledge for Life’s Youth Advisory Council’s April Social Media Campaign Also in April, the Pledge for Life Partnership’s Youth Advisory Council will launch its annual Be Kind to the Mind social media campaign. The campaign focuses on promoting healthy alternatives to substance use, particularly underage drinking. Participants will be encouraged to take a selfie with a sign reading, “I would rather choose __________ than underage drinking,” and share their positive alternatives online. This event will also feature a radio contest and giveaways to engage the community in supporting youth wellness.

4. Mental Health and Wellness Festival (May 10, 2025) To kick off National Prevention Week, the Pledge for Life’s Youth Advisory Council will present the annual Mental Health and Wellness Festival at the Kankakee Farmers’ Market on Saturday, May 10, from 8 AM to 12 PM. This family-friendly event will offer local resources, activities, and information about mental health support, wellness practices, and substance abuse prevention.

5. National Prevention Week (May 11-17, 2025) National Prevention Week, held from May 11-17, 2025, will focus on raising awareness about substance abuse and mental health issues, providing resources for prevention, and highlighting the importance of community action. Local organizations, including the Pledge for Life Partnership, will take part in a variety of activities to promote mental health and wellness throughout the week.

6. Retail Assessment Partnership Additionally, the Youth Advisory Council will team up with the Kankakee County Health Department to distribute a Retail Assessment over the next several weeks. This initiative will survey local tobacco and alcohol sales and marketing practices, helping to identify ways to reduce the availability and promotion of harmful substances to youth.

These events aim to create a stronger, healthier community by focusing on prevention, wellness, and positive youth engagement. Whether through fun activities, educational resources, or hands-on initiatives, the goal is clear: to promote a better, healthier future for everyone.

1 National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism : 2 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration : 3 BMC Public Health