Rockwood Drug-Free coalition is bringing drug prevention to the surface by holding the event “Breaking Through Barriers: the power of parents” on April 19.

The event will take place from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the St. Luke’s Hospital auditorium.

Renne Heney, Rockwood Drug-Free Coalition coordinator, when asked about the event said, “This interview-style panel discussion will focus on underage drinking and drug use, and what parents can do to help their children make healthy and safe choices.”

Thanks to contributions and a few federal grants this event has been made free to all who attend.

Wondering who should attend? It has been recommended that, parents, adolescents, teens, and other concerned communities members participate.

The expected 250 attendees will hear about teen perspectives, how to parent without hovering, understanding risky behaviors and understanding what makes the teen brain so complicated.

The event will also include presentations by educators, counselors and medical professionals from the St. Louis area.

Activities Director Steve Berry said, “Anything that we can do to bring this topic to the forefront is good.”

With risky behavior becoming more and more relevant in today’s society, many community members find this event to be something we really need to improve the teens of today.

“There is a certain sub culture in our community where it seems that underage use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, etc. is acceptable,” Berry said.

Concerned members of our school community hope that this program is successful as well.

Parent volunteer Karen Collins said, “I hope the program brings to light the health issues associated with smoking and drug use.”

Not only are the parents concerned but the students are as well.

Sophomore Ryan Schaper said, “I think it sounds like it would be really good for the community to get together and discuss these type of things, because it’s hard to just inform the students about it and have the parents be left out.”

The whole Rockwood community is hoping for another success with the “Breaking Through Barriers: the power of parents” event.