Coalition for a Safe & Drug-Free

 Newaygo County

  4 West Oak Street                                                                                                                               Ph: (231) 924-1662

  Fremont, MI 49412                                                                                                                              Fax: (231) 924-5663

                                                                                                                                             www.drugfreenewaygocounty.org

May 28, 2008

Dear Newaygo County Residents:

As the school year comes to an end it is time for celebration, summer gatherings and parties.  For teenagers parties are an important part of their lives; however, a poorly planned or spontaneous get-together can have unwanted, even tragic consequences for those hosting the event or for those attending the event. 

In the United States, among persons aged 12 and older, alcohol is the first most commonly used drug substance.  As a matter of Michigan Law, it is illegal to serve drugs, including alcohol, to minors (under the age of 21).  It is also illegal to allow minors to consume alcohol or drugs in the home.  Parents are legally responsible for anything that may happen to a minor who has been served drugs or alcohol in their home.  Parents can also be sued for the malicious or destructive actions of their children no matter where they are (Michigan Compiled Laws 436.33 and 600.2913). 

Research shows that teenagers who learn about the dangers alcohol and other drugs from their parents are less likely to engage in the risky behavior.  Setting expectations and rules for teens about alcohol and other drug use when attending or hosting parties must come from the home.  It is also important for all of us (parents) to communicate with other parents and to provide a consistent non-alcohol use message to our teenagers. 

The following links provide parents with general guidelines for teenagers attending parties and guidelines for parents hosting a teenage party. 

We hope parents find the information useful and that it will help guide parents at a critical time when teens are often pressured to drink.  We also encourage parents to take the time to talk to their teens, as well as other loved ones, about the dangers of using alcohol and other drugs. 

Sincerely,

Matt Hendrie

Officer Matt Hendrie

Fremont Police Department

Coalition Chairman