Sticker Shock Campaigns

Raising Awareness, One Sticker at a Time

What is a Sticker Shock Campaign?

Sticker Shock Campaigns are community-based initiatives designed to educate and remind adults about the legal and social consequences of providing alcohol to minors. As part of the campaign, brightly colored warning stickers are placed on cases of alcohol in stores, often by youth volunteers working with local prevention coalitions, law enforcement, or community organizations.

The messages on the stickers typically include reminders about the legal penalties for furnishing alcohol to anyone under 21, as well as the potential harm and liability that can result.

What’s the Purpose?

The goal of a Sticker Shock Campaign is simple but powerful: To "shock" adults into thinking twice before buying alcohol for teens. These campaigns aim to:

• Deter adults from purchasing or providing alcohol to minors.
• Increase awareness of the law and the consequences of underage drinking.
• Promote community involvement in underage drinking prevention.
• Empower youth to take an active role in prevention efforts and influence positive change in their communities.

Why It Matters

Underage drinking is not only illegal — it poses serious risks to a young person’s health, safety, and future. By sending a visible, clear message at the point of sale, Sticker Shock Campaigns serve as an effective reminder that keeping alcohol out of kids’ hands is a community responsibility.

Who's Involved?

Sticker Shock Campaigns are typically a collaborative effort, involving:

• Local youth groups or coalitions
• Law enforcement agencies
• Alcohol retailers and businesses
• Community prevention organizations
• Schools and parents

Together, these groups demonstrate that underage drinking is a priority issue that affects the whole community — and that everyone has a role to play in prevention.