If you’re seeking a simple way to make a difference in some teenagers’ lives, the Rio Arriba County DWI council has a suggestion. The group is taking on the task of holding the first ever post prom all night party.
Nationally, prom nights are big trouble for teens. Locally, it hasn’t been a huge problem but the situation is right. All the elements for a disaster are there. They’ve got a pass to go berserk for one night. It’s their night. Unfortunately most don’t exercise common sense and some just do stupid things.
Thedra Martinez and Louise Sanchez, of the County’s office are a two woman wrecking crew when it comes to knocking out teen DWIs this year after prom. They’ve coordinated with the Dreamcatcher Theater and have the place April 25 from midnight until 5 a.m. the following morning.
Teens who attend Española’s prom will be issued tickets that get them in the door of the Dreamcatcher within 30 minutes of the prom letting out. Sobriety tests will be administered at the door. Then they’re in for the night.
The public can help in many ways. To begin, parents of prom-goers need to give their teens permission to stay out all night, knowing they’ll be locked in a theater with some state policemen, DWI council folks and chaperons.
Martinez and Sanchez know they’re competing with hard liquor, kegs of beer and drugs. It’s a challenge to convince teens to come watch some movies instead. So they’re spicing it up with some door prizes, gifts, cash giveaways and food. They need donations that will draw teens. They want to give out some cool stuff like iPods and lap tops. Most of us can’t go out and buy a lap top to give away. But we can give a little money and between many of us, the DWI folks can buy some good giveaways.
They also need volunteers to raise money, chaperon and help set up and tear down. Being the inaugural year, this is a huge job. The two are learning as they go and need help. They hope to grow this into a post prom night for each high school. But that won’t happen without community help.
This is an opportunity to make a difference in the drug and alcohol fight in Rio Arriba County. Turning teens away from drugs and alcohol can keep them in school and allow them to move on with their lives constructively.
To give money, gifts or time please call Thedra or Louise at 747-1418. The youth of your community need you.