Communities That Care Coalition

The Communities That Care Coalition began in 2000 in Western Massachusetts to reduce youth substance abuse and improve youth health. The program brought together and coordinated the efforts of various local stakeholders including schools, youth and parent groups, law enforcement, health care providers, and the local hospitals. By implementing its Community Action Plan—which includes an annual Teen Health Survey, anti-substance curricula in local schools, social marketing, and forming strategic partnerships within the community—the Coalition has been successful in identifying several underlying risk factors of youth substance use in the area and priorities for improvement. During the 12 years of its work, the Coalition has measured substantial improvements in youth substance abuse, as well as a reduction in the underlying factors causing it. The Coalition is supported by state and federal grants. To read more about this innovative program, see this brief summary [link].