A DCHS CONNECT HIGHLIGHT

May 11, 2023- In recognition of National Alcohol Awareness Month and National Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April, the Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) and the Alexandria Sexual Assault Center (SAC) hosted a series of events and activities encouraging residents to learn the risks associated with alcohol use and sexual violence as well as:  

• Learn the facts about youth alcohol use, including the legal consequences of providing alcohol to people under 21. 

• Know that anyone can develop a substance-use disorder, that treatment is available, and recovery is possible. 

• Know that alcohol and other drug use is never an excuse to commit acts of sexual violence.  

• SAPCA and SAC invited youth, parents and caregivers, and all community members to get involved through such activities as  wearing teal — the color of sexual violence prevention — on April 4 to show support for sexual assault survivors and wearing denim on Denim Day on April 26 to stand in solidarity with sexual assault survivors.  

Among the other events held for Sexual Assault Awareness month was the annual Sexual Assault Survivor Poetry Share on April 26. The annual virtual Sexual Assault Awareness 5K Run/Walk was also held, with participants sharing their photos at #TogetherWeCan #RespectProtectEmpower. The Titan Takeover Teen Night took place on April 28. This safe and free event for Alexandria youth featured a DJ, photo booth, dinner, gift card raffles, games, DIY self-care kit stations, and a Denim Day activity. 

Support is available. SAC offers a 24/7 hotline and a range of services for survivors and their supporters. In case of an emergency and for life-threatening situations, always call 911.   

SAPCA provides tools and resources for residents to engage youth in conversations on the dangers of alcohol and other substances. Remember too that adult drinking behavior influences youth, so it is important to model healthy coping mechanisms. Access a wide range of resources for coping with stress in the City’s Wellness Resource Guide. 

Sign up for SAPCA’s e-newsletter, follow SAPCA on Facebook and Twitter, and visit SAPCA’s website to stay informed about upcoming events and ways to get involved. 

Contact SAC Volunteer Coordinator Grace Brown to learn about opportunities, including joining a committee on education to reduce drug and alcohol related sexual assault.  

Visit SAC’s website for resources for survivors of sexual assault and their families and friends. 

Follow Alexandria Teen Life on Instagram for inspiring messages and information on living a healthy life.