Be a Parent, Not a Friend

Using data from the 2017 PRIDE survey, members of the Teen Advisory Council (TAC) identified alcohol abuse as a problem of practice among their peers. The survey indicated students who reported using substances, started using around age 12-13. Additionally, sixty percent of the youth in grades 6th-12th reported using alcohol in the last 30 days on the weekends at home or at a friend’s house.

Using this knowledge, TAC members created the PSA “Be a Parent, Not a Friend” reminding parents of the dangers of providing a “safe” environment for their child and their friends to drink and that it is illegal. Individuals convicted of providing alcohol to a person under 21 years of age face a maximum sentence of six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

The production was entirely youth-led, TAC members created the characters, wrote the script, identified shoot locations, participated in lead roles & supporting cast as well as assisted with the production of this PSA “Be a Parent, Not a Friend”. TAC members created the PSA “Be a Parent Not a Friend” to inform parents that you can provide a safe environment for your child and his/her friends to hang out by promoting healthy choices.

The Knox County Teen Advisory Council (TAC) is a youth-led prevention team of New Directions and the Knox Substance Abuse Action Team.  TAC represents all Knox County schools, grades 9-12. TAC members are actively working to end teen dating and sexual violence, as well as the use of alcohol, tobacco and substances among their peers. TAC members receive leadership training, gain knowledge of critical issues impacting teens, learn about the Knox County community, and have the opportunity to participate in professional development and advocacy events.