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IMPLEMENTATION The Rethinking Drinking Program is an additional strategy for further harm reduction. The workshop draws on restorative justice principles and practices to frame the issue within the context of harm and repair, even though at first blush many participants may see that the only harm done is that they “got caught.” Focusing on the strengths and assets of each youth, the workshop provides opportunity for learning concerning decision-making, risk and self-concept. Scientific data regarding the impact of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs on youth provides information to encourage individual learning. The Rethinking Drinking Program is suitable to all youth under age 21. Ideally, youth will be assigned to groups of similar age and maturity level (e.g., 18-20, 16-18, under 16). Each minor (under the age of 18 years) is required to have one or both parents participate in the entire workshop. In the absence of parental availability, the minor will be responsible for identifying an alternative family member or supportive adult to attend the workshop, subject to approval by the Program prior to the workshop. Youth over the age of 18 years are required to have a parent, family member or other supportive adult over age 25 participate in the entire workshop. Any exceptions to these guidelines must be approved in advance by the Program. The specific details of each community’s Rethinking Drinking Program will dictate certain pre-workshop details. In general, however, the program will arrange for the workshop location and provide facilitators with participant information (names, ages, addresses and phone number of youth; names, addresses and phone number of parents or other supportive adult attendees). The facilitator makes a phone contact with participants prior to the first workshop session. The value of this call is to engage each participant in a warm, welcoming and non-judgmental manner; to provide a brief description of what participants can expect at the workshop; to respond to questions or concerns; to remind them of the workshop date, time and location; to learn from the youth who will be accompanying them throughout the workshop (parent, family member, supportive adult), and giving prior approval, if necessary; and letting the youth know that each session of the workshop will begin on time. Workshops are limited to 10-12 youth participants, with the possibility therefore of 20-24 adult participants. Chairs in each room should be arranged in a circle with no tables. The importance of the facilitator’s role cannot be overstated. In the context of a restorative justice process, the facilitator establishes a context of safety and respect within which clear accountability for the alcohol-related crime occurs. Facilitating a face-to-face circle process encourages empathy, while empowering youth, parents, supportive adults and the community to address their problems positively and constructively. |
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Only) Researchers have found that the most critical intervention strategy producing non re-offenders includes the following factors:
On behalf of your community, the youth, families and supportive adults you will be serving, thank you for your interest in this Restorative Underage Alcohol Program! |