Community Tolerance?
Ask the Experts by Kathy Rager
Q: Grosse Pointe is a unique community and I knew it when I moved in five years ago. I love the character of the community and feel welcome. One thing does puzzle me. "Grosse Pointers" seem to accept underage drinking and that it is a "rite of passage". I feel pressured to let my daughter participate by attending teen parties and other activities where alcohol is served to them. I read in the newspaper that these parties are visited by law enforcement on a regular basis and I don't want my daughter involved. What can I do?
A: Residents of most communities minimize alcohol and drug use by their underage children, I find that Grosse Pointe is not a unique community. Of those children who are referred to CARE of Southeastern Michigan for a substance abuse evaluation and where counseling is recommended, fully 40% of the parents do not follow up on these recommendations. You are wise to be concerned.
You can protect your daughter by being a parent who is involved with her day to day activities, and share your values and family history.
It is more difficult for youth to use alcohol and other drugs if mom and dad know where they are and what they are doing. It is more difficult for youth to use alcohol and other drugs if mom and dad take a firm stand and respect the law - no underage drinking or use of illegal drugs.
Since there is a genetic link to alcoholism and other drug addiction, teens need to know their medical history including if grandma is/was an alcoholic. This is not about blame, it is about health.
Grosse Pointe Public Schools recognizes that students today have a difficult time growing up for many reasons. A down turned economy puts addition stresses on families. The GPPSS has partnered with CARE of Southeastern Michigan to provide free help for students experiencing problems that affect their ability to succeed in school.
These concerns include alcohol/drug experimentation or use; grief and loss issues, difficulty managing strong emotions and problem relationships. CARE of SEM continues to offer diversion programs for youth who have had a first encounter with public safety. Youth can avoid court involvement by participating in a free comprehensive, education focused program.
Kathy Rager, Executive Director at Community Assessment Referral & Education (CARE) and parent educator has provided advice on raising competent, capable children for the last 25 years. Her advice is based on a formal education, experience with highly stressed families and raising her own three children. She can be reached at 586.541.0033, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Visit CARE's website at http://www.careofsem.com for parenting class information or call 585 541-0033. CARE is a member of The Family Center's Association of Professionals.
Over a Decade of Commitment to Community Families Since 2000
The Family Center serves as the community's hub for information, resources and referral for both families and professionals. The Family Center is a non-profit organization founded to promote a deeper understanding of the role of parents and others in supporting our youth to become competent, caring and responsible community members.
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To volunteer or contribute, visit www.familycenterweb.org, call (313) 432.3832.
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or write to: The Family Center
20090 Morningside Drive, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236.
