Ennis Residents Star in IMPACT Ennis Campaign


Like 84% of Ennis adults, Ross Jones believes it’s not okay to give alcohol to youth.

He knows that alcohol kills more kids than all other illegal drugs combined and that, even when used with supervision, it can cause permanent damage to developing brains. That’s why Ross and four other Ennis community leaders have joined up as spokespersons for the Ennis Safe Homes Network this summer. The Safe Homes Network is a pledge program that educates adults on how to provide a safe environment for youth, especially by keeping alcohol out of the hands of kids. Underage drinking is a leading cause of teen deaths, accidents, alcoholism, and academic failure, yet adults are the number one source of alcohol for kids. In fact, approximately 70% of secondary students say that alcohol is easy or very easy to get.

Throughout July and August, IMPACT Ennis members will be promoting the Safe Homes Network and encouraging adults to set boundaries and provide consistent parental monitoring, especially when it comes to alcohol and other dangerous substances. Ennis residents will see familiar faces carrying this message around town in the form of billboards, newspaper ads, posters, handouts, and a public service video. All will have the opportunity to sign the pledge and appear in the Safe Homes directory.

The Ennis Safe Homes Network is just one strategy of the IMPACT Ennis community coalition to reduce underage drinking in Ennis. To learn more about Ennis Safe Homes, visit www.ennissafehomes.com.

Appearing in the Safe Homes video are: Ross Jones, Jane Mize, Booker Washington, Mateo Martinez, Betty Honza, Madison Betik, Reagan Holley, Bailey Betik, Taylor Dodson, Aaron Jacek and Matt Loper.

The video was produced by Marshall Hinsley of Blue Sky Media. The superhero photos are by Ennis photographer Rosalyn Todaro of Roz Photo.