MEDIA RELEASE

Underage drinking is not “somebody’s” problem. It’s everybody’s problem. It costs the nation $62 billion annually. Even more, it incurs incalculable costs in heartbreak and family crises. In an effort to prevent underage drinking, the Hawai‘i Island chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) will host a “Community Power Night,” Friday, August 9, 2013, 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the YWCA in Hilo.

With separate tracks for adults, teens and young children, the Community Power Night is designed to share information and alternatives from a broad range of organizations and individuals.

The event is free and complimentary pupus are provided, along with a parenting workshop, youth leadership and expression, and group support. For young children, facepainting, crafts and storytelling activities will be shared.

“For youth, we want to create an environment where they feel free to express themselves and their ideas about drugs and alcohol,” Aaron Collins, Program Coordinator for Hawai‘i Island MADD, said.

“We also have MADD’s ‘Power of Parenting’ workshop and different resources to help parents, and possibly enlighten them about how positive parenting contributes to good choices,” Collins said. “We aren’t here to lecture, but to start a discussion, and our handbook with facts and information.”

Collins said other community organizations, service providers, and support groups are welcome to join the event. “MADD offers a 30-minute workshop and we wanted to give something more, not just information about drugs and alcohol, but about positive alternatives that are available in the community for kids.”

Representatives from BJ Penn Training and Fitness Center, Big Island Cheer, Boys and Girls Clubs and others will be on hand to share information.

The event is free and a great selection of doorprizes will be awarded, including gift certificates, ‘ukulele, gym memberships, health products and more.

— Find out more:

Aaron Collins 808-934-0300 (or) aaron.collins@madd.org

The North Hawaii Drug-Free Coalition, a project of Five Mountains Hawai‘i, is a regional volunteer organization committed to developing strong, sustaining relationships for Healthy Communities Choosing to Live Drug Free. 

— Find out more:

www.fivemountains.org/nhdfc