POMEROY — To recognize the serious problem of alcohol abuse, April is designated “Alcohol Awareness Month.”

The youth of Meigs County have developed activities to increase their peers’ awareness of the effects of alcohol on their health, academic performance, and athletic abilities. Youth-Led Prevention Funds from the Gallia-Jackson-Meigs Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services were awarded to Eastern and Meigs High School SADD Chapters. The funds are granted to foster partnerships that promote community service, prevention and positive youth development.

The Meigs County Commissioners have joined in the prevention efforts by signing a proclamation recognizing April as Alcohol Awareness Month. The proclamation declares that alcohol use by young people is extremely dangerous to society as a whole. During this years campaign, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence is highlighting the important issues of underage drinking, a growing problem with devastating consequences.

Students at Eastern, Meigs, and Southern High Schools will take part in the campaign by signing prom promises. Area students also had the opportunity to attend Impact 2009 at Ohio University which focused on underage drinking. Other student activities include coloring and poster contests for grades K-5, and the creation of public service announcements for grades six-12. Prizes for the contests will be awarded to students during the Meigs County Community Coalition meeting at 6 p.m. tomorrow.

Eastern and Meigs SADD Chapters are also busy in the planning, advertising and setting up for the “After Prom Parties.” In an effort to provide a tragedy-free prom, the SADD Chapters of Eastern and Meigs Local are working to provide an alcohol and drug-free “All Night Party” for their students as a safe alternative to the usual drinking and driving from party to party that takes place.

This Alcohol Awareness Month Campaign is sponsored by Southern Local School Districts Grant to Reduce Alcohol Abuse and the Gallia-Jackson-Meigs Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services. This partnership is dedicated to serving the communities of Meigs County. Working together, we can support our youth and prevent the onset of alcohol use.