House Party: RAD Townhall Forum on Underage Drinking - 4/29

RAD-SGV (Rethinking Alcohol and other Drugs) Coalition, Day One, and Pasadena Public Health Department to Host Underage Drinking Townhall Meeting

Pasadena, CA.  April 8, 2014 – Youth who begin drinking before age 15 are 5 times more likely to become dependent on alcohol.  Youth who consume alcohol also put themselves at higher risk for cognitive impairment – the human brain continues to develop until about age 25 – accidents, sexual assault, risky sex (e.g., unprotected sex), and physical and verbal abuse.

The stakes are unfortunately high. In Los Angeles County excessive alcohol consumption is the 2nd leading cause of premature death and disability, costing about 2,500 people in the region their lives every year.

“Alcohol is the most widely misused drug by youth in our community, with serious, potentially lifelong negative consequences,” shared Christy Zamani, Day One Executive Director. “However, many youth and parents underestimate the dangers of alcohol use, especially at a young age.”

To better inform and educate parents, youth, and the broader community about the risks of alcohol use, RAD Coalition members Day One and the Pasadena Public Health Department are hosting a townhall forum focused on the issue of underage drinking. The event will feature an expert panel, “reality party” and keynote speakers Dr. Eric Walsh, Pasadena Public Health Department Director and Dr. Didra Brown-Taylor, a UCLA alcohol researcher. 

Healthy refreshments and snacks will be served, and Spanish translation services provided.

• WHAT:    House Party: Underage Drinking Townhall
  
• WHO:      RAD-SGV, Day One, Pasadena Public Health Department  
  
• WHEN:    Tuesday April 29, 2014 (5-7pm)
  
• WHERE:  Jackie Robinson Center, 1020 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena 91103 
  

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