Portland group hosts event to help parents, kids talk about drug, alcohol use [Video]

PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) – A survey by Portland Public Schools shows about 27% of high school students report drinking alcohol within the last 30 days.

And when it comes to preventing substance use among children and young adults, communication between parents and their kids is critical.

To help with that, a special event was held Saturday in northeast Portland at McDaniel High School

The event was organized by Big Village, a community-based coalition.

Nearly 20 vendors took part, for a day full of workshops, youth activities and keynote speakers to help demystify a dangerous problem among youth and young adults, while having some fun at the same time.

Aaron Wilson is a youth outreach specialist.

“Today is Prevention Rocks Conference,” Wilson said. “We’re here to be a part of the community. Big Village tries to reduce the stigma of substance use through talking with parents and education. And we’re just trying to be an asset to the …