You have the ability to influence our community culture and create welcoming spaces, and understand shared accountability.
Events are a great way for the community to come together and celebrate a wide range of occasions (team parties, tailgates, birthdays, graduation, etc.).
Whether attending an event or hosting one where alcohol is present (or not), this guide can help you consider how to create the best experience for all participants. Here are 5 quick actions to consider:
For hosts
- Set the vibe up front. Tell people what to expect (size, location, times, and whether alcohol will be there) and set boundaries. Be thoughtful about the language used in invitations.
- Normalize not drinking. Clearly indicate non-alcoholic (NA) drink options and make them easy to access for all. Emphasize that it’s okay not to drink.
- Build in connection (not just drinking). Welcome guests and introduce them to each other. Have something to do besides drinking (group activities, icebreakers, movies, etc.).
- Assign clear roles. Decide who will welcome guests, check in on them throughout the event, stock NA drinks and food, and lead games.
- Plan for the end before it starts. Review Stay in the Blue strategies (if alcohol is being served), make sure guests have a safe way home, and know how to intervene if needed and when to call for help (medical amnesty).
For attendees
- Plan ahead. Go with a friend, make a plan for how you want alcohol involved (if at all), review standard drink sizes (12 oz. beer, 5 oz. wine, 1.5 oz. liquor), check in with each other throughout the event, and decide on a safe way to get home.
- No is a complete sentence. You don’t need a reason not to drink — grab an NA option and stay at the event.
- Watch for the “off” moments. If someone seems too intoxicated, isolated, pressured, or unwell, check in with them and intervene if needed.
- Intervene with a buddy. Tailor your action to the situation. Try strategies like: Direct (“Are you okay?”), Distract (“Come with me for a sec.”), or Delegate (get host/RA/staff/911).
- Choose safety over awkward. If you’re not having fun or it feels unsafe, it’s okay to leave; if it feels like an emergency, call for help (medical amnesty applies).
This guide was created with the help of U-M students. It includes evidence-based practices for positive experiences when alcohol is served.
Check out Stay in the Blue or Cannabis Conversations for more strategies U-M students use to set the vibe!
Other things to consider as a host
Liability for hosts
Brush up on the laws, policies, and ordinances involving alcohol and alcohol drugs. And remember…
- It's illegal to serve alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. Hosts can be held responsible for injuries that an intoxicated person causes or incurs at or after leaving a party.
- The State of Michigan holds servers of alcohol liable for injuries caused by intoxicated individuals who consumed alcoholic beverages in a home, office, or other establishment.
Consider using sober monitors at your party. Upon request, Wolverine Wellness offers free training on creating the best experience for all participants at events where alcohol is present.
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PDF version of the Social Gathering Guide on this page.
People wearing colorful, light-up headphones dance and laugh together at a silent disco party, set against a backdrop of purple and blue lighting.