North Platte, NE — April 3, 2025 — In recognition of Alcohol Awareness Month this April, Community Connections, is urging local residents to increase their understanding of the dangers of alcohol misuse and to prioritize prevention efforts in our community.
Alcohol Awareness Month, observed annually in April, serves as a time to raise awareness about the negative impacts of alcohol misuse, promote healthy behaviors, and provide education to help prevent alcohol abuse. This year’s theme focuses on "Reducing Risks, Strengthening Communities", emphasizing the importance of prevention, education, and support for individuals and families affected by alcohol misuse.
“Alcohol misuse continues to be a significant issue, particularly among young people, and it’s crucial that we as a community come together to address it,” said Erin Bone, Community Connections’ Substance Abuse Prevention System Coordinator. “Alcohol Awareness Month gives us the opportunity to reflect on the risks associated with alcohol use and to implement strategies that can help prevent misuse, reduce alcohol-related harm, and promote healthier lifestyles.”
Key Messages for Alcohol Awareness Month
Throughout the month of April, Community Connections is working to:
• Educate the Community: Through a social media campaign, Community Connections is sharing critical awareness information regarding alcohol use.
• Support Families and Youth: Focused outreach will be made to young people and families to promote open conversations about alcohol, healthy decision-making, and the importance of seeking help when needed.
• Raise Awareness of Available Resources: Community Connections offers a range of prevention resources, including support for families, educational materials, and can connect you to other agencies that offer additional resources such as counseling services for those affected by alcohol misuse.
“We know that early intervention is key,” Erin Bone said. “When we work together as a community, we can reduce the risks associated with alcohol use and build a stronger, healthier tomorrow.”
Get Involved
Community Connections is inviting local residents, community organizations, schools, and businesses to join in Alcohol Awareness Month by:
• Supporting Prevention Programs: By becoming more involved in local prevention efforts, whether through volunteer work or simply spreading the word, residents can help reduce the stigma surrounding alcohol misuse and encourage individuals to seek help.
• Talking to Your Family: Families are encouraged to have open, honest discussions about alcohol use, its risks, and healthy coping strategies.
• Utilize Resources: Community Connections offers FREE Alcohol Bottle Tamper Evident Strips. These strips are used to protect children and other vulnerable people in your home from alcohol misuse. The strip is placed over the bottle’s seal and can easily be tracked by serial number. Tamper-Evident Strips are available for community members and businesses such as liquor stores.
“We’re in this together, and together, we can reduce the impact of alcohol misuse in our community,” Bone added. “Let’s take this opportunity to educate, support, and make a lasting difference.”
About Community Connections:
We build connections between community agencies, businesses, neighborhoods, schools, families and individuals to coordinate activities, services, and programs that enhance the quality of life in Lincoln County. We create change and inspire others to work together toward a better tomorrow.