If the figures on alcohol abuse in Germany are to be believed, they are lower than they have been since 2001, according to the Federal Statistical Office. However, this is no reason for the DAK to discontinue the “colorful instead of blue” picture exhibition. On the contrary: “Alcohol prevention without pointing a finger will remain indispensable for us in the future in order to show children and young people the dangers of alcohol abuse,” says Andree Rump from DAK Schwäbisch Hall. This year the exhibition took place for the 15th time in the West School Center. It opened on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 and was preceded by a Germany-wide painting and drawing competition. The pictures of the winners were then exhibited in various schools, including Schulzentrum West in Schwäbisch Hall.

In his opening speech, Ralph Schröder, principal of Erasmus-Widmann-Gymnasium, addressed the pupils of both schools directly and vividly demonstrated the negative consequences of alcohol abuse.

Ralph Schröder and Andrea Fürle, principal at Johannes Brenz Community School, were joined by school social workers Tim Cornelius, Katrin Brucker and Sarah Frohmader, who will subsequently hold addiction prevention days with the young people.

These range from talks on serious topics such as smoking, alcohol and drugs to active activities such as football and a leisurely mindfulness session. With a total of 13 workshops, there should be something for every young person. In addition to teachers from both schools, there will also be other speakers, for example from the youth addiction counseling center or the Diakonie addiction counseling service. There will also be a parents’ evening with Alexander Weller from the State Media Center.