About the Pledge…
The Parent/Community Pledge is part of a bigger picture to create a community-wide change in the way people think about teen drinking. Making the Pledge will reduce the likelihood of teens having access to alcohol in Sonoma Valley homes. As increasing numbers of community members join the Pledge campaign, youth binge drinking rates and the corresponding impact on teen health and social problems will decrease.
There are other strategies to consider when it comes to keeping teens safe and alcohol free. This includes increasing enforcement of underage drinking laws by the Police Department as well as considering enacting policies such as a Social Host Ordinance to further prevent drinking parties from occurring.
The Pledge States:
- I will not serve minors, nor will I allow youth under the legal drinking age to consume alcohol or to use other drugs in my home or on my property.
- When hosting a youth party, I will be home, be visible and be aware.
- I will not allow teen parties in my home when I am not there.
- I will share the information in this pledge with my child/children.
Recommendations for Hosting/Supervising Teen Events:
- Make sure alcohol is not accessible to teens.
- Encourage “by invitation only” parties.
- Let guests who leave the party know that they may not return.
- Call the parents of any youth who appears to be under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
- Help anyone who is under the influence to get home safely.
- Call the police if the party gets out of control.
When your teen is invited to another party, verify:
- Location and hours of the party.
- That there will be adult supervision.
- That no alcohol or other drugs will be served or allowed.
- Contact other parents to verify your teen’s plans.
- When your teen gets home from a party, check in with him/her.
Designate a responsible adult to supervise your teen when you are out of town or unavailable.
If you wish to sign the pledge please print out this page and mail the pledge to:
Danielle Ronshausen, c/o SAY, 1055 Broadway, Suite D Sonoma, CA 95476
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Yes, I wish to join other community members in signing the 2009 Parent/Community Pledge.
Your Name(s):
Your Phone Number (optional):
Your E-Mail Address (optional):
*Your signed pledge will be kept by the Sonoma Valley Coalition to Prevent Underage Drinking to gauge community support. You will not be contacted for fundraising and your email and phone number will not be given out. Please return to: Danielle Ronshausen, c/o SAY, 1055 Broadway, Suite D Sonoma, CA 95476
