WE ASK YOU TO SIMPLY TELL YOUR STORY.  SPEAK WHAT IS TRUE FOR YOU, AND YOU CAN TRUST THAT IT WILL BE “RIGHT”.

1. Comfortable, modest clothing is preferred.  We don’t expect you to “dress up”. 

2. Feel free to bring someone for support if you like.

3. Within a 15 minute time span, share the what, when and how of your tragedy.

4. Express who has been affected by this and how.

5. Use visual aids when possible.  Photos of you or your loved one before the crash; crash photos; death certificate; autopsy report; and personal mementos are all appropriate visual aids.

6. Speak from the heart, and don’t worry if you become emotional.  Genuine emotion is a great communicator.  If you need to stop for a few seconds to regain your composure, simply say so.
                       
7. Conclude your talk with a final message, which can include a plea to NOT drink and drive.

8. Notify the program coordinator as soon as possible if you cannot speak due to an emergency.

9. Gas money is available if you travel more than 60 miles round trip.

10. We ask that you NOT quote statistics or express your opinions about the criminal justice system.

11. Do not blame or accuse the audience.

12. Do not discuss your personal use of alcohol as it tends to take the focus off the tragedy and can cause the listener to question your credibility.

13. At school presentations, do not say “We’re not here to tell you not to drink; just don’t drink and drive” because it is illegal for minors to drink.

14.  Do not involve the audience by allowing them to ask questions.

15. Always feel free to ask the coordinator for help if you are unsure of your presentation. 

16. When speaking at school programs, do not reprimand a student who is being disruptive.  Leave that for the coordinator to handle.  If necessary, just remain silent and look at the student until  you have regained their attention.