"Parent Party Patrol" Increases Parents' Awareness

Project Characteristics Program Areas Targets hard-to-reach/at risk population Innovative or non-traditional approach Youth Programs Alcohol and Other Drug Targeted Audience Jurisdiction Parents & Primary Caregivers County

Goals

• Curtail unsupervised parties and other youthful gatherings
• Reduce the number of injuries and deaths resulting from alcohol toxicity and youth impaired driving
• Reduce adult sponsorship of events for youth that involve alcohol use
• Encourage open communications between youth and their parents or guardians regarding alcohol and other drug use
• Improve the investment of responsible adults in the development of guidelines for youth
• Create a relationship between youth, adults, schools and law enforcement, that fosters improved trust

Strategies

The Parent Party Patrol™ is a volunteer, non-profit organization that reaches out to parents, grandparents, foster-parents and older primary caregivers to young people at risk for illegal alcohol use. The program also attempts to connect with local law enforcement agencies, schools, churches and other entities that serve or are involved with youth. It provides interactive settings that allow participants to learn more about the consequences of alcohol and drug use by youth, and the choices available to promote safe, responsible activities for young people. Services provided by the program include: Professional panel presentations; workshops focusing on parenting skills, support and referrals; assistance in identifying ongoing neighborhood party locations; lists of statewide alcohol violations, published quarterly; informational program materials designed to provide tools and solutions for the home and community.

Results

• Parents have increased awareness of activities at unsupervised parties
• Improved communication with their children
• Greater involvement with schools or community groups to discuss drugs and alcohol
• Live presentations at schools each year