Lots of changes, lots of new developments!
Welcome to the new HCC Member Blog! We hope that everyone is staying safe and healthy during this difficult time. Over the next few months you will notice that HCC’s website is going to be experiencing some changes. We are excited for this opportunity to create a new look and to bring you more information that is current. Our new website is not only going to serve as a hub for community resources but to also share coalition experiences with you. For example, in the month of April, we brought recognition to Alcohol Awareness Month. Alcohol Awareness is very important to our coalition as one of the goals that has founded our work is to reduce underage alcohol use in Cattaraugus County. Did you know that alcohol is the most abused substance by youth? Not only is it illegal to supply alcohol to minors, but there are so many risks involved with underage drinking from engaging in dangerous activities to suffering from anxiety and depression. It is also important to note that youth who begin drinking are at a greater risk for developing an alcohol use disorder.
But, the good news is that youth want to hear from adults, and they are listening! In the 2019 Cattaraugus County Prevention Needs Assessment Survey that was administered to students in grades 6-12, it was reported that 96% of students feel their parents disapprove of them using alcohol. It was also found that 81% of students reported NOT drinking alcohol within the Past 30-days, however, only 64% feel that alcohol is harmful. With that being said, the coalition continues to work to educate youth and adults on the dangers of underage drinking, which has also inspired the launch of our most recent contest. In the month of April we launched a poster contest for students to tell us what they like to do that is “better than drinking.” Please stay tuned for contest winners and poster submittals on our website!
Tara Estright
Healthy Cattaraugus County
Community Coalition Coordinator
But, the good news is that youth want to hear from adults, and they are listening! In the 2019 Cattaraugus County Prevention Needs Assessment Survey that was administered to students in grades 6-12, it was reported that 96% of students feel their parents disapprove of them using alcohol. It was also found that 81% of students reported NOT drinking alcohol within the Past 30-days, however, only 64% feel that alcohol is harmful. With that being said, the coalition continues to work to educate youth and adults on the dangers of underage drinking, which has also inspired the launch of our most recent contest. In the month of April we launched a poster contest for students to tell us what they like to do that is “better than drinking.” Please stay tuned for contest winners and poster submittals on our website!
Tara Estright
Healthy Cattaraugus County
Community Coalition Coordinator
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