On Saturday January 31, 2015 parents of school aged children and adolescents met at Pope John XXIII School at Saint Nicholas Parish in Evanston, Il for a Spanish speaking presentation on " Alcohol Abuse: Prevention and Strategies in our Latino Community". The presenters included Dr. Gregory Benson-Fl�rez, an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and Jacob Gross, a Masters student of Clinical Counseling also at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. The parents participated in dialogue regarding their diverse experiences related to alcohol abuse. In addition, the parents discussed the importance of finding motivating factors to overcome the denial of an alcohol abuse problem. Various aspects of alcohol abuse in the Latino community were covered, including how these problems may occur at family gatherings and celebrations.  Other topics included information on how individuals that are seeking treatment for alcohol abuse and related problems may progress through the stages of change model. The presentation concluded with a question and answer session with the presenters and Chair of the ESAP Coalition and the distribution of community resources available in the Latino community.

For more information in Spanish and English, Read more...

In December, the National Institute on Drug Abuse published its 2014 Monitoring the Future survey data. The data described an overall decline of underage drinking by 8th, 10th, and 12th graders across the nation! To celebrate the prevention progress and contributions from those such as yourself, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has released an online, shareable greeting card. See here...

Research shows that increased parental involvement and communication regarding alcohol use decreases children's likelihood of underage drinking. However, these parental rules also tend to relax as kids get older; parents overall spend less time talking to their children about alcohol use and impose less severe punishment for violations. Parents should not underestimate the impact of maintaining messages about responsible drinking throughout adolescence, researchers say. More details...

Snowflake took place on Friday, January 30th from 3:30pm-9:00pm  at Haven Middle School.  Snowflake is a free event offered to all of Evanston's District 65 middle school youth, grades 6-8.  Throughout the night, the students engaged in meaningful discussion and activities surrounding making positive and healthy choices for their lives that impact them right now and in their future. They also were able to express themselves and work on teamwork through the West African drumming and dancing led by Evanston's own S.O.U.L. Creations. The night finished with performances by Imagination Theater that focused on how students can effectively problem solve various situations they may face like bullying, violence and substance use.  Every year, Snowflake promotes healthy living skills among youth through the support of the community. Thank you to all of the high school students, college students and community members who volunteered their time at this event and made it a success!