From the 2011 Leadership Summit – “Generation by Generation”

In March 2011, teens in Ventura, CA gathered for a Leadership Summit to explore social issues and discuss their ideas for possible solutions for reducing underage and binge drinking and impaired driving in their community. Activities included improv games and social change theatre exploration, videomaking, writing, and discussion. Here is a speech presented during the afternoon’s advocate training.

A teen presents a speech during advocate training at the 2011 Leadership Summit.

Generation by generation, the value of life has decreased drastically. Everyone takes for granted that we only get one life to live, especially teens. They feel like they are invincible so they believe that 10 beers and 4 shots of vodka couldn’t cause them to put their lives and the lives of others in danger.

You aren’t you when you are under the influence; you lose the ability to use common sense, and that’s why you believe it’s okay to go behind the wheel when you clearly are not.There are alternatives you can take that will ensure you get home safely.

Why risk your life by drinking and driving — do you really want today to be the last day you live?