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Santa Fe, NM—As prom and graduation season approaches, the Santa Fe County Youth Services Division and Pojoaque Valley High School are teaming up to deliver DWI prevention activities and the following powerful message to the community: Just don’t—support our youth by eliminating underage drinking.

From April 21 through May 3, 2025, a series of impactful DWI prevention events will shine a spotlight on the importance of keeping alcohol out of the hands of minors and preventing life-altering tragedies caused by drinking and driving.

The campaign kicks off with the Sticker Shock Underage Drinking Campaign, which begins April 21 at participating alcohol retail outlets in the Pojoaque area. Pojoaque Valley High School students will place bright, attention-grabbing stickers on alcohol products to remind adults that providing alcohol to minors is illegal and dangerous. These stickers directly appeal to parents and community members: Don’t be the reason. Don’t buy or give alcohol to minors.

Next, on April 29, the school will host a DWI Prevention Crash Simulation. This moving event brings together the Santa Fe County Fire Department, Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, City of Santa Fe Police Department, Pojoaque Tribal Police Department, Santa Clara Police Department, San Juan Police Department, Classic Air Medical, Rio Arriba Sheriff’s Office, and The Mountain Center. Attendees will witness a realistic, staged crash scene that reveals the tragic consequences of impaired driving. First responders will share their stories from the front lines, offering powerful, personal testimonies about the lives forever changed by DWI. The Mountain Center will also be on hand to provide behavioral health support for students and community members impacted by the presentation.

"As we approach prom and graduation season, it's crucial to remember DWI is 100% preventable," said Chanelle Delgado, Youth Services Administrative Program Manager. "It's not just about adhering to the law; it's about protecting lives and safeguarding the future of our youth. By making the conscious choice not to provide alcohol to minors, we can help prevent tragedies that have lifelong consequences. Let's work together to create an environment prioritizing safety and responsibility, ensuring our celebrations are joyous and free from the heartbreak of loss."

Santa Fe County invites the entire community to join us in protecting our youth, raising awareness, and making this season safe.

For more information, please contact Chanelle Delgado, Youth Services Administrative Program Manager at cdelgado@santafecountynm.gov.

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