Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
Mayor Justin Wilson, City Of Alexandria | City Of Alexandria website
In observance of National Alcohol Awareness Month, the Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) is inviting community members, including youth, parents, and caregivers, to participate in various awareness activities and prevention efforts. SAPCA Coordinator Emma Beall is available for media inquiries at emma.beall@alexandriava.gov or 571.302.1022.
A reception is scheduled for April 22, from 6 to 7 p.m., at City Hall to honor the Red Ribbon Week poster contest winners. Light refreshments will be provided. Attendees are requested to RSVP by April 18. "Following this reception, join SAPCA for the presentation of a proclamation recognizing April as Alcohol Awareness Month at City Hall at 7 p.m."
SAPCA aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with youth alcohol use and the legal implications of supplying alcohol to minors. "In Virginia, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor to provide alcohol to a minor," notes the organization. Offenders could face penalties including up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and the loss of a driver's license for a year for each minor who is given alcohol.
The "I don't drink because..." campaign by SAPCA features videos by Alexandria City High School students, promoting an alcohol-free lifestyle among youth. The campaign highlights the predominant social norm that most young people in Alexandria choose not to drink.
For more information, SAPCA encourages the community to subscribe to their e-newsletter, follow them on Facebook and X, and visit their website for updates on events and volunteer opportunities. Additionally, inspirational messages about healthy living can be found by following Alexandria Teen Life on Instagram.
SAPCA also provides resources to help residents engage with youth about the dangers of alcohol and substances, healthy decision-making, peer pressure, and other related topics. A Resource Directory is available for Alexandria's youth and young adults.
For reasonable disability accommodations, individuals can contact christina.damhuis@alexandriava.gov, call 703.746.5694, or reach Virginia Relay at 711.
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