Last month, in recognition of National Alcohol Awareness Month, the Substance Abuse Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) led a series of impactful initiatives aimed at educating and engaging the community around the dangers of underage drinking. Youth, parents, caregivers and residents were encouraged to participate in awareness activities.
On April 22, SAPCA celebrated the winners of its Red Ribbon Week contest at a reception at City Hall, where a proclamation was presented officially recognizing April as Alcohol Awareness Month in Alexandria. The event also highlighted the importance of understanding and following state laws. In Virginia, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor to provide alcohol to individuals under the age of 21. Offenders can face up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine per underage person provided alcohol, and the suspension of their driver’s license for up to a year. It is also illegal to use a fake ID to purchase alcohol.
Throughout the month, SAPCA and the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) shared important resources and tools to help residents talk with young people about alcohol and substance use. These tools focus on healthy decision making, resisting peer pressure, avoiding risky behaviors, and accessing treatment and recovery options when needed.
As part of its outreach efforts, SAPCA launched the “I Don’t Drink Because…” Campaign, featuring powerful video messages created by Alexandria City High School students. These peer-led videos promote positive choices and reinforce the growing social norm that most youth in Alexandria choose not to drink. The campaign serves as a reminder that choosing to stay alcohol-free is a growing trend.
According to the 2022 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, approximately 23% of high school students nationwide reported drinking alcohol in the past 30 days, while in Alexandria, local data shows that number to be significantly lower. This reflects the success of ongoing prevention efforts and a community culture that supports youth in making healthy choices. Research from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) shows that early alcohol use is associated with a higher likelihood of alcohol dependence later in life, reinforcing the importance of delaying onset drinking.
By combining education, outreach, and youth-led advocacy, SAPCA continues to lead the charge in creating a safer environment for Alexandria’s residents and youth.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/yrbs/index.htm
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). (n.d.). Underage Drinking. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/underage-drinking
- Virginia State Code § 4.1-306. Persons to whom alcoholic beverages may not be sold. https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title4.1/chapter3/section4.1-306/
