Mothers Against Drunk Driving Are Putting Their Anger To Positive Actions

Established by Candice Lightner after the death of her daughter, as caused by the reckless actions of a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) has transformed its anger to positive actions. The non-profit organization aims to stop drunk driving among all age levels, provide support for people affected by drunk driving, and preventing underage drinking, as well as pushing for overall stricter policies on alcohol.

While its claim of drink driving being cut in half since its establishment may be subject to debates, it cannot be argued that, indeed, the organization has made its positive impact on the general public. Its members, supporters and volunteers have all contributed to the organization’s success while the general public has been largely receptive to its message.

MADD favors several approaches in its programs and projects against drunk driving including:

• Providing for education and advocacy services for the general public
• Advocating for stricter policies in several areas, such as lowering the illegal blood alcohol content limit, implementing stronger sanctions against drunk drivers, and recommending better treatments for alcoholism, among others
• Assisting the victims and their families of drunk driving as well as the guilty impaired drivers

The organization pushes for areas where the government may have been relatively lenient, thus, contributing to the still-disturbing rate of drunk driving. These areas include maintaining the 21-year old minimum legal drinking age and mandating IIDs.

MADD has also shifted its focus from reducing driving under the influence (DUI) instances to reducing alcohol consumption across all age levels. As such, it has been accused of taking a neo-prohibitionist stance that a few sectors are adamant to be identified with considering the present attitudes toward alcohol.

Nonetheless, MADD has garnered accolades for the work it does for the community. It has been rated as one of the best charities in the United States with majority of its fundraising efforts going to its programs and projects.