Friday, November 10, 2023 Friendsgiving: Foster positivity and gratitude at your celebrations
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The autumn holiday season is upon us and it's the time of year when Husker students gather to share gratitude and create lasting memories.
Whether you plan an on-campus Friendsgiving gathering or reconnect with hometown friends for festivities over Thanksgiving break, you can celebrate while prioritizing everyone's well-being and fostering a positive and responsible social environment.
Here are tips for creating a memorable and safe celebration while integrating harm reduction practices.
Plan early and travel safe.
Given the hectic academic schedules, plan your Friendsgiving gathering well in advance. Ensure all attendees have a safe mode of transportation, especially if the event involves alcohol consumption. Organize rideshare options or designate a sober driver to prioritize everyone's safety. If you are hosting at your home allow them to stay at your home for the evening.
Choose the correct venue.
Select a suitable and accessible location that accommodates the size of your group. Opt for a space that encourages a comfortable and secure environment for all participants, whether it's a residence hall, campus lounge, or a friend's apartment. Make sure your friends know about a designated areas for smoking and vaping.
Theme your celebration and harm-free activities.
Add a unique touch to any Friendsgiving by incorporating a fun theme and interactive and engaging activities. Instead of focusing solely on alcohol-centric events, consider hosting a movie marathon, sports-themed games, or a music-inspired karaoke contest to promote a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere.
Make it a potluck with healthy alternatives.
Embrace the spirit of community by organizing a potluck-style meal where everyone contributes a dish. Encourage the inclusion of nutritious food options and provide non-alcoholic beverages to ensure a well-rounded and balanced dining experience for all attendees. Discover flavorful drink recipes with UNL’s Mocktail Mixology.
Express gratitude and build meaningful connections.
Foster a culture of appreciation and camaraderie by asking guests to share their appreciation of others through thoughtful activities such as a gratitude jar or personalized notes. Promote a supportive and inclusive environment that values meaningful connections and shared experiences among friends.
Capture the moment and preserve the memories.
Document the joyful gathering with a group photo to commemorate the occasion. Emphasize the significance of cherishing the camaraderie shared during Friendsgiving, and encourage attendees to tag their experiences on social media to foster a sense of community and belonging. Share your experience with campus by tagging #UNLFriendsgiving.
Enjoy a safe break and Go Big Red!
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Want an Alcohol and Other Drugs presentation or program for your RSO, chapter, or group? Connect with Jon Gayer, assistant director for alcohol and drug education, at jgayer3@unl.edu and 402-472-2583.