The Lake County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 22, 2025, highlighted significant community efforts aimed at reducing underage drinking through the "Spread the Word" initiative. This project, led by the Friday Night Live club, focuses on educating the public about the legal consequences of supplying alcohol to minors.

During the meeting, representatives from the club shared their recent activities, including placing labels and door hangers on alcohol containers in local stores to remind customers of the law prohibiting alcohol sales to individuals under 21. They reported successfully gathering over 100 pledges from community members promising not to supply alcohol to minors, with plans to increase this number at upcoming events, including a child advocacy walk.

The club's overarching goal is to create a safe environment for youth to learn about substance use prevention. Members meet weekly at local schools, where they engage in discussions and activities aimed at fostering leadership and advocacy skills among students. The initiative has received support from local businesses, such as Foods Etcetera and Clear Lake Grocery Outlet, which have allowed the club to conduct outreach activities in their stores.

The meeting also addressed future expansion plans for the program. The Friday Night Live club aims to partner with the Lake County Office of Education to extend its reach to elementary and middle schools, with aspirations to eventually include all school districts in the county. This expansion is seen as crucial for fostering a culture of prevention and reducing the need for substance abuse treatment in the community.

In conclusion, the efforts of the Friday Night Live club and its partners reflect a strong commitment to youth advocacy and substance use prevention in Lake County. The community's support and involvement are essential for the program's success and sustainability, as leaders emphasize the importance of prevention over treatment in addressing substance abuse issues.