You have the ability to change our community culture and create inclusive spaces.
Events are a great way for the community to come together and celebrate a wide range of occasions (team celebrations, birthdays, graduation, etc.).
Whether attending an event or hosting one where alcohol is present, the guide below can help you consider how to create the best experience for all participants.
A text-only version of A Guide to Social Gatherings is available.
Hosting help
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.
Having fun (while staying safe)
Make sure there are nonalcoholic beverages and high-protein food available. Let the main attraction of the party be something other than alcohol.
Be aware of what is happening at your party! Discourage excessive drinking by setting limits for things like drinking games (e.g. fill beer pong cups with water, set a maximum number of standard drinks or game rounds…). Intervene if you see guests hurting themselves or others.
If you notice someone getting drunk and losing control, stop serving them alcohol. Offer a nonalcoholic beverage or food to divert their attention from drinking. The State of Michigan provides for Medical Amnesty if you need to call for help.
Consider using sober monitors at your party. Wolverine Wellness offers free training around creating the best experience for all participants at events where alcohol is present upon request.
Check out Stay in the Blue or Cannabis Conversations for more strategies U-M students use to have more fun and less drama together.
When the party's (almost) over
Don't drink and drive.
Encourage designated drivers (those who won't drink at all or who consume 1 or 2 drinks early on).
Intervene if you see someone intoxicated who wants to drive home. Take the keys away and offer an alternative way home.
Want to get involved in these campaigns?
Fill out this form to request print materials and digital assets to share with your school/college or organization.
You can also share ideas for future campaigns or sign-up to participate in upcoming focus groups to test out new ideas here.
Interested in continuing the conversation?
Sign up for wellness coaching for alcohol or other drugs.