What is a Coalition?
A coalition is a unified group of people who share common interests with a desire to create a positive transformation or change within their community and/or college campus. A coalition member acts as an agent for change to achieve agreed-upon needs, solutions, and outcomes. Coalitions can mobilize at a local level using a comprehensive data-driven approach to make their communities safe, drug-free, and healthier.
Who makes up a Coalition?
A coalition promotes coordination and collaboration to make limited use of community resources. Coalitions are made up of multiple community sectors such as:
-
Youth
-
Parents
-
Business Community
-
Media
-
Youth-Serving Organizations
-
Law Enforcement
-
Faith-Based
-
Civic & Volunteer groups
-
Schools
-
Health Care Professionals
-
Government
-
Other organizations involved in substance abuse
Why are Coalitions effective?
Community coalitions are effective because they encompass various sectors within the community that form a unified body (strength in numbers). Because communities share common history, social, economic and political interests, concerns can be addressed at a local level with proven effectiveness. By focusing on data-driven issues, problems are combated through education and environmental strategies specific to that area.
How does a Coalition get started?
A coalition gets started by people with concerns surrounding an issue a vision of a healthier community. These leaders step up to the plate to organize community members and sectors for a unified outcome. They set the tone and engage the community and colleges. They involve people from grassroots to policymakers. Their main role is to act as a community mobilizer, building relationships, and collaborating with the community. Those who directly experience a problem are more invested in finding a solution.
Interested in getting involved?
Submit an email request, and a WNY PRC team member will contact you with details about existing community coalitions in your area. If no coalitions already exist, we can discuss the process of starting a coalition.