Prevention Coalitions – Central Florida Behavioral Health Network

What Are Prevention Coalitions

Groups of concerned citizens who want to eliminate the misuse of drugs and other substances in their communities. They want everyone, particularly young people, to be healthy and safe. They are the catalyst that brings together young people, parents, teachers, law enforcement officers, businesses, religious leaders, health providers and others to mobilize and attack problems. Using a process called “Environmental Strategies”; Coalitions study problems and develop solutions using proven programs. They oftentimes receive support from the National organization – CADCA (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America) – who provides support, funding and training for groups so they can make communities safer, healthier and drug-free. CFBHN supports Prevention Coalitions throughout the network.

Coalition work includes:

Data Collection uses knowledge about risk and protective factors to put in place tried and proven programs that offer information and support, enhance skills, change community norms to encourage health and wellness, modify or change policies, and improve access by reducing barriers to services. Some programs include; science-based school education, support of teen-driven social norming campaigns, and sponsoring informative presentations and family-oriented awareness events. These activities touch lives while providing important anti-substance abuse and anti-bullying messaging

Prevention Coalitions Contact Information & Annual Reports

Annually every CFBHN network Prevention Coalition prepares a detailed report on their activities for the previous year. They provide details about positive outcomes achieved and how activities benefitted citizens in their communities. Please click on the County tab to find the Coalition serving your community and then the Annual Report link to read about their accomplishments.