Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services, in partnership with the Keeping It Safe Coalition, is sponsoring two student contests aimed at raising awareness about the risks of underage drinking and encouraging alcohol-free celebrations during prom season.
The Sober Vibes Essay Contest and the Keeping It Safe Student Video Contest are open to public and private school students in Montgomery County, with submissions due by March 31. Winners will be recognized at a spring awards reception hosted by the coalition, and contest guidelines are available through the organization’s website.
The essay contest invites high school juniors and seniors to submit a persuasive letter to peers pledging not to consume alcohol around prom, with winners receiving a limousine ride for themselves and friends. The video contest is open to middle and high school teams, which may submit 30-second public service announcements addressing topics such as peer pressure and social media influence. Top video entries will earn cash awards for their schools, with an additional prize based on online engagement. County officials and program leaders said the contests are intended to encourage student-led messaging around safe and healthy choices, while supporting broader efforts to reduce underage drinking and its impacts.