The Solutions

Environmental Approach

First, let's say what it isn't. The Stepping Up Project is not an alcohol prevention or treatment program. At least not primarily. We already have good prevention and treatment programs at the University and in our community, so we do not need to duplicate them.

Despite having good prevention and treatment programs, high risk drinking is still a problem. We think those programs are necessary for combating the problem, but they are not all we need. They address high risk drinking from the perspective of the individual. That is why we are adding the environmental approach, which provides the complimentary focus on the cultural, social, and economic aspects of high risk drinking and its harmful effects.

Since we all suffer the harmful effects of high risk drinking, we believe we have the right -- even the duty -- to take collective action to reduce high risk drinking. We need to hold students and other high risk drinkers accountable.

Students did not create the culture that views high risk drinking as a harmless rite of passage. We cannot blame college students for manufacturing and marketing alcoholic beverages; nor are they responsible for the number of bars located within walking distance of our campus; or for the price specials bars and retailers advertise that encourage students to drink to get drunk. Our goal is to change the environment that supports high risk drinking.

Changing the Environment

There's no single solution that will eliminate high risk drinking, so we are trying a number of things that show promise for reducing high risk drinking.

  • Keeping the Iowa Memorial Union open later.
  • Late night programs have included free movies, swing dancing, and longer hours at the Field House (the recreation center, not the bar).
  • Funding for events that students plan themselves. They have included a film series, casino night, folk and jazz music offerings at coffeehouses, ethnic fests, and sporting events.
  • Supported an amendment to Iowa City's disorderly house ordinance. We do not object to parties, but party hosts and party-goers need to respect the rights of their neighbors.
  • Support enforcement of current laws.
  • Supported City Council decision to limit late night access to the bars to those who are 19 and older.

If you have other ideas for reducing the problems associated with high risk drinking, let us know by email: stepping@uiowa.edu or call 319-353-2529.