Every April, Alcohol Awareness Month gives us a critical opportunity to have honest conversations about alcohol use and its dangers, especially for our teenagers.
Today’s youth face enormous pressures from friends, social media, and a culture that too often treats drinking as harmless.
But at LAHC – Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, we believe that strong families, clear guidance, and community support can empower teens to live alcohol-free, confident, and healthy lives.
Even in a world where drinking is normalized, we can teach our youth to protect their futures, honor their values, and build stronger communities.
Why Alcohol Awareness Month is so important
Alcohol Awareness Month is about education and prevention. It reminds us that alcohol is the most commonly used and abused drug among youth in the United States.
Studies show that people who begin drinking before age 15 are 3.6 times more likely to develop alcohol problems later in life.
When teenagers drink, their brains, which are still developing, can be damaged. Drinking can also cause poor decision-making, accidents, school problems, violence, and serious health issues. It’s not just “kids being kids.” It’s dangerous.
Many parents think, “It won’t happen to my child.” But the truth is, it can happen in any home, school, or neighborhood, including here in Dearborn and throughout Southeastern Michigan. That’s why prevention must start early, and it must start at home.
How parents can prevent teenage drinking
Parents have a huge influence on whether their children decide to drink.
You can help prevent teenage drinking by using the Dearborn Police Department’s free PERK kit. This drug and alcohol test kit offers an easy, private way to catch early warning signs and get help if needed.
Other steps for parents include the following.
1. Talk early and often
Start conversations about alcohol when your children are young. Keep the talks short but frequent. Ensure they know you do not approve of underage drinking and explain why.
Be clear. Be firm. And listen carefully to what your child has to say.
2. Set clear rules
Teens need clear rules and expectations. Make sure they know the rules about drinking and the consequences for breaking those rules. Follow through if needed.
3. Be a good role model
Children watch what you do. If you drink, do so responsibly. Show them that drinking is not needed for fun, stress relief, or social activities.
4. Know your child’s friends
Get to know the people your child spends time with. Teens are less likely to drink if their friends don’t drink.
5. Keep them busy
Teens who are involved in activities are less likely to use alcohol. LAHC offers many programs that help teens build strong skills and stay active.
LAHC’s youth programs that help prevent teen drinking
At LAHC, we believe that giving teens positive opportunities can keep them away from alcohol and other risky behaviors. We offer several Youth Programs to support the well-being of parents and teens.
Youth Fitness
Our Youth Fitness sessions are designed for 11-17-year-olds and promote physical health, strength, and confidence.
We offer full 30-minute workout videos live on Facebook and short clips on Instagram and TikTok. No gym equipment is needed—sometimes, we even use household items!
Exercise teaches discipline and builds self-esteem. A healthy, active teen is less likely to turn to alcohol.
Learn more about Youth Fitness
Botvin Life Skills
Research-backed classes, similar to the DARE program, that teach middle and high school students how to resist alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and violence through healthy decision-making skills.
Learn more about Botvin Life Skills
ACT Drug Free Community Coalition
A community partnership focused on preventing youth substance use through education, events, and outreach programs.
Learn more about the ACT Drug Free Coalition
Youth Action Committee
A team of 12–17-year-olds from Inkster and Dearborn Heights leading community projects, social media campaigns, and substance abuse prevention efforts.
Healthy Living Program for better nutrition
Through our Healthy Living Program, we work with schools to teach children about the connection between good nutrition, fitness, and school performance. Kids learn how what they eat affects their mood, memory, and behavior.
Teaching children how to make good choices at a young age sets a strong foundation for a healthy future, free from alcohol and drug abuse.
Schools that want to offer this free program can contact us at [email protected].
Youth Leadership Bridge to College Program (YLBTCP)
Our Youth Leadership Bridge to College Program (YLBTCP) is a free, evidence-based program for high school students. It focuses on leadership, life skills, college access, and career preparation.
Topics include:
- Resume building
- Communication skills
- Strategic planning
- Community action
- Public speaking
Giving teens goals and leadership skills makes them less likely to engage in drinking and other risky behaviors. They realize they have a bright future to protect.
Weekly Sessions:
Every Tuesday, 4 pm – 6 pm
From April 1st – May 20th, 2025
5275 Kenilworth
Completely FREE!
What if my teen has already tried alcohol?
It can be scary to find out your teen has tried alcohol. But it’s not too late to help them.
Consider the following:
- Stay calm. Listen to your teen without yelling or judging.
- Discuss the dangers and why you’re concerned.
- Set new, clear rules going forward.
- Keep communication open and honest.
- Get support if needed.
At LAHC, we offer many resources for families facing substance use challenges. Help and advice are available under our Substance Use Prevention and Assistance section.
There are tools for youth, parents, and schools to work together to address drinking before it becomes a bigger problem.
LAHC: protecting our teens and strengthening their futures
Keeping teenagers safe from the dangers of alcohol starts at home — with strong families, open communication, and clear guidance.
As parents and caregivers, we can help teens make smart, healthy choices, even in a world that often encourages the opposite.
At LAHC, we are proud to stand with families, offering programs that support youth development, leadership, and healthy living.
Explore LAHC’s Youth Programs and community resources. There, you can find positive activities that help teens grow strong, confident, and prepared for the future.