1. How does GT SMART perceive the role of alcohol
in the community?
While responsible alcohol use has a legitimate place in our communities, the proliferation of bars and liquor stores, excessive alcohol advertising, and the secondary harms like DUI associated with high-risk drinking make it necessary for communities to work to minimize the negative impact these factors have on our quality of life.
2. What is the "environmental model" which forms
the foundation for the activities of GT SMART?
The environmental prevention method impacts factors such as alcohol advertising and marketing, institutional policies and practices, and city ordinances that could promote and seem to condone alcohol consumption to a point that puts the drinker and others at risk for negative health, safety, and social consequences.
3. What are the second-hand effects of high-risk
drinking?
Interrupted sleep and study time and property damage are some of the secondary harms frequently associated with high-risk drinking, but harms as serious as physical and sexual assault and death from DUI or alcohol poisoning can also result.
4. Who are the members of GT SMART?
The GT SMART Coalition is made up of Georgia Tech staff and students, community leaders, local government officials, representatives from the Atlanta Police Department, bar and restaurant owners, substance abuse professionals, and many others.
5. How is GT SMART organized?
GT SMART is governed by a Steering Committee. Four working committees: Communications and Marketing, Law and Policy, Neighborhood Relations and Development are working to develop and implement strategies that support the mission of GT SMART. Several sub-committees also exist, such as the Ordinance Review committee, which falls under the Law and Policy committee.
6. How is the project funded?
GT SMART received a five-year grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation,
which is administered by the American Medical Association's "A Matter
of Degree" project. In September 2004, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
renewed the grant through 2008. In 2003-2004 additional funding
was made possible by a grant from the State of Georgia's Children and
Youth Coordinating Council. This grant was renewed for a second year
in June 2005, ending in 2006.
