While the consumption of alcohol may be a proper aspect of a certain club events, drinking should not ever be the primary purpose of a club event. For example: 

• The primary purpose of happy hours may be professional and/or social networking with other alumni. 

• The primary purpose of brewery/winery tours may be learning about how the product is made and served and the location’s history. 

• The primary purpose of game-watching parties may be athletics, camaraderie, and networking. 

• The Association’s liability insurance will not cover events where consumption of alcohol is the exclusive or primary activity (e.g., bar/pub crawls), or where there is a specific charge for the purchase of alcoholic drinks. thereby exposing a club and its volunteers to potential personal liability or injuries that may happen at these events. Because of the risk involved and the negative reflection upon the Association’s brand and image, the Association strongly discourages its clubs from organizing or promoting these events. Hosting such an event may also jeopardize a club’s status with the Association. 

• There is no coverage if any required license is not in effect. 

• If alcoholic beverages are to be served at a club event in a facility that does not have a liquor license or permit, event coordinators must contact their state authorities to determine if a liquor license or permit is required. In many states, if a sponsor is not charging for each drink (cash bar), a license or permit is not required. One way to avoid the need to check with the State, or purchase a permit, is to hire a caterer that already has a liquor license. 

• If you are hosting a club event where alcohol is served in a private home, the Association strongly recommends you hire a licensed bartender or caterer with liability insurance to serve the alcohol (otherwise, the host’s homeowner’s insurance policy will be the primary insurance coverage). The Association’s liability insurance will not cover club leaders and even events where alcohol is served in a private home. 

 Club leaders should take appropriate intervention measures if a guest at any club event appears intoxicated.