MADD Georgia Presents Virtual Law Enforcement Recognition Awards

Staff Report

Wednesday, September 2nd, 2020

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) celebrates its 40th year with the MADD Law Enforcement Recognition Awards presented virtually across Georgia on September 1, 2020. In our 40th year, as THE grassroots organization that started the cultural revolution that made drunk driving unacceptable, we ask that you take a stand with MADD Georgia to further a future with NO MORE VICTIMS. Donations will support the continuation of MADD Georgia to provide underage drinking programs and services to victims and families of drunk and drugged driving at no cost. Making this year’s event public, at no charge, will enable more people to appreciate and recognize the commitment of law enforcement professionals and MADD to end impaired driving. 

MADD Georgia Law Enforcement Recognition Awards events have received outstanding reviews since their inception. MADD Georgia honors law enforcement officials for their continuous efforts in impaired driving enforcement. This year, virtually, the event will recognize law enforcement with awards for the number of impaired driving arrests made annually. Each arrest is a life saved and MADD awards their service as they dedicate their lives to keeping our roads safe. Annually, this event is attended by legislators, key administrators, agency directors, sheriffs, chiefs of police, officers from all facets of law enforcement, government officials, district attorneys, impaired driving survivors and victims eager to show appreciation and support to all awardees. 

“We recognize that there has been no pause for law enforcement during this pandemic and we are grateful to them. MADD Georgia acknowledges that law enforcement are our natural partners and we are very proud of that partnership,” said Denise Blake, MADD Georgia’s State Executive Director. “We know people are restless, but this is no time to get reckless. As we emerge from months of sheltering in place, make sure you always designate a non-drinking driver before you take the first drink — wherever you are. It’s very simple. If you drink, don’t drive. If you drive, don’t drink.” 

MADD Law Enforcement Recognition Awards 2020 Date

Tuesday, September 1, 6 p.m.

Concurrently streamed on MADD Georgia’s virtual LER site, Facebook page, and YouTube Channel.

Drunk driving is the leading killer on our roadways and has claimed the lives of 375 people in Georgia in 2018. Every single one of those deaths is 100% preventable. In addition, driving while impaired by other drugs — legal and illegal — causes devastating and preventable tragedies. With all the options available today — rideshare apps, such as Uber or Lyft, taxis, public transportation or family and friends who have not consumed alcohol — there’s no excuse to drive while impaired. 

Since shelter-in-place orders began in March, MADD Georgia has continued to provide supportive services virtually to victims of drunk and drugged driving. Funds raised from the virtual LER will support MADD’s research-based programs to end drunk and drugged driving, support the victims affected by impaired driving and prevent underage drinking. Statewide supporters can donate by calling (770) 615-3737, ext 7352 or online donations can be made here: www.madd.org/GALER.

For those impacted by drunk driving and may have lost a loved one, MADD Georgia is also holding monthly online support groups. Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/maddgeorgia for all program updates, call our office at 770-615-3737, or visit us online at www.madd.org/georgia.