As a result of the Five-Town Summit in January 2005, Brighton, Fairport-Perinton, Penfield, Pittsford, and Webster have joined forces to launch the PARENTS WHO HOST LOSE the MOST — Don't be a party to teenage drinking public awareness campaign in partnership with Ohio Parents for Drug Free Youth.

With the support of our government agencies, law enforcement, schools, community groups, civic organizations, and faith communities, the five towns will work to inform parents and other adults about the legal ramifications and health and safety risks of serving alcohol to teens. As a partner in this effort, the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependency-Rochester Area will act as an information hub with the creation of a webpage which will house information and strategies for parents and communities www.nydas.org/parentswhohost.

Many high school students view proms and graduation as a rite of passage into an adult world in which alcohol and celebrations go hand-in-hand. Some parents support this belief by hosting prom or graduation parties that include their child's friends where alcohol is provided.

Adults providing alcohol to underage youth sends a mixed message and can only add to a teenager's confusion about the acceptability of drinking. This also sends the message to teens that they do not have to obey the law. It is illegal, unsafe, and unhealthy for anyone under age 21 to drink alcohol.

Underage drinking parties are a health and safety problem with serious legal ramifications. Below is a list of tips and information about underage drinking that have been put together to assist parents and adults in making the right decision.

April 2008 D&C Op Ed
Monroe County’s Social Host Law 2008

A Message to Parents
Community Contacts
Suggestions for Community Involvement
Tips for Parents
Underage Drinking Facts and Figures
Underage Drinking Laws
Underage Drinking Statistics