Implement the Prevention Strategy

Once the police department and the parent coalition had completed all the necessary steps to prepare for the compliance checks, they went into action! The compliance checks were held over a 6-month period throughout the community. Each compliance check was advertised in the local newspaper the week before the check, and the parent coalition assumed the duties for the merchant education piece after each event. After each compliance check, a news release was prepared to inform the community of progress by the Danyaville Parents Advocating Prevention (DPAP) and continue to promote the cause. The police department valued the parental support, as it countered the negative responses from some of the merchants.

Trainings on how to strategically disperse underage drinking parties to mitigate intoxicated youth from running out of the houses and into their cars was instituted for the Danyaville police. Measures such as controlled dispersal programs and sobriety checkpoints were among the trainings available to the police. Once trained, law enforcement not only prevented underage drinking, but also influenced alcohol-related adult problems as well.

The coalition continued to grow. Communication within the group and across the community became vital. Regular meetings and staff trainings were implemented. Various issues of the coalition were addressed at these meetings, including empowering staff, reviewing action steps and timelines, documenting project activities, and promoting prevention activities. The DPAP dedicated time and resources to develop an organization that was communicative, knowledgeable, and supportive. The coalition also realized the importance of staying in touch with the community. Using an email newsletter, the coalition could easily communicate program activities to stakeholders.