Forum for Parents, Students Focuses on Drug Use, Underage Drinking

Statistics from the latest California Healthy Kids Survey indicate 25 percent of elementary school children in the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District have tried alcohol. And of those who drank, 29 percent reported having had their first full drink of alcohol before age 13.

Current drug and alcohol trends among youth will be discussed at a family forum slated for Tuesday night at the La Mesa Community Center. Dinner will be provided.

Hosted by the La Mesa Collaborative, the event focuses on the dangers of drug use and underage drinking. Parents will get information and learn about resources, and students will participate in educational break-out sessions. 

Parents will better understand risks and trends, develop ways to talk to their kids about drug and alcohol use, discuss how they can set a positive example for their kids, and learn how to create a safe environment at home. Students will learn the dangers of drug use and underage drinking and the importance of making healthy choices.

The forum is moderated by Phil Hubbs, a retired narcotics officer and executive director of Proactive Network Against Substance Abuse (PRONASA). 

The forum was organized by the La Mesa Collaborative, Phil Hubbs, Friday Night Live,  San Diego Youth Services, Communities Against Substance Abuse, the McAlister Institute, SADD, the Community Research Foundation, and community members, parents and youth.

Dinner will  be served at 5:30 p.m. La Mesa Community Center is located at 4957 Memorial Drive.