Steering Committee  Officers

Chair
Jennie Jester Phd
U of M Health System

Co-Chair
Denise Bertin-Epp
President Brighton Hospital

OUR BEGINNING

 In February of 2007, over 40 Saline and Pittsfield Township
residents, local law enforcement, community leaders, schools, parents, and youth sought clarity on the underage drinking issue in a public forum to learn more about the extent of the problem in Saline and surrounding communities while brainstorming ideas to address underage drinking.

 The coalition has been meeting on a monthly basis to examine the issues and lay the groundwork that would mobilize a community response to address underage drinking. The coalitions first collaborative effort with local law enforcement and the Hotel/Motel Association of Washtenaw County called the "Safe Prom" initiative (recognized in the Ann Arbor News), truly demonstrates the community's commitment and concern to work together to reduce underage drinking. As the Saline coalition expands in community resources, members are confident that efforts are sustainable and will increase the needed technical capability and people power for a real impact.

  In order to effectively carry out the mission, the Saline Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking is organizing to train its members in both the process of identifying the scope of the problem and the content to reduce underage drinking with a strategic plan.

  Under the fiduciary umbrella of the Saline Coalition for Quality Community, the Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking will accept the generous support of a $5,000 donation from the Judy Ivan Healthy Communities Endowment to further develop and create a sustainable grassroots community coalition.