SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – YAAS is an online event dedicated to educating and empowering young individuals about the dangers of alcohol consumption. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with expert speakers and network with like-minded individuals from around the State. Together, we will explore the impact of alcohol on physical and mental health, discuss strategies for prevention, and learn about resources available for support.
“This summit aims to equip youth and industry professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions and promote safe alcohol choices,” said Illinois Liquor Control Commission Executive Director Lisa Gardner. “By participating in YAAS, you will become part of a community committed to raising awareness about alcohol-related issues among youth. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference.”
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA), alcohol use during the teenage years can interfere with normal adolescent brain development and increase the risk of developing alcohol use disorder. In addition, underage drinking contributes to a range of serious health consequences, such as injuries, sexual assaults, alcohol overdoses, and deaths—including those from motor vehicle crashes. Alcohol is a factor in the deaths of thousands of people younger than age 21 in the United States each year. This includes:
- 1,573 from motor vehicle crashes
- 1,121 from homicides
- 190 from alcohol overdose, falls, burns, and drowning.
- 718 from suicide
For general questions, contact LCC.IndustryEducation@illinois.gov.
For media inquiries, contact Nicole.Sanders2@illinois.gov.
About the Illinois Liquor Control Commission
The Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of Illinois through careful control and regulation of the manufacture, distribution, and sale of alcoholic liquors. The ILCC furthers its mission with training and education to help reduce youth access to alcohol products.
To learn more about the ILCC and its divisions, visit www.ILCC.Illinois.gov. To submit a tip or complaint to the ILCC’s Enforcement Division, click here.
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