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 and makes limited use of community resources.  Coalitions are made up of multiple community sectors:

• Youth

• Parents

• Business Community

• Media

• Youth Serving Organizations

• Law Enforcement

• Faith Based

• Civic and Volunteer groups

• Schools

• Health Care Professionals

• Government

• Other organizations involved in substance abuse

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.  

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.