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The negative consequences of substance abuse affect all segments of society, regardless of gender, ethnicity or income. In order to address the needs of all members in a community, coalitions must develop comprehensive approaches to effectively reach and facilitate interaction between diverse cultural groups. Dr. Eduardo Hernández-Alarcón, Vice President of International Programs and Deputy Director of Dissemination and Coalition Relations for CADCA’s National Coalition Institute, discusses how coalitions can start developing cultural competence and identify socioeconomic diversity in their communities.

In 1997 the Van Buren County SAFE Coalition based in Keosauqua, Iowa engaged their local hospital, schools, health department and other key stakeholders to address youth alcohol, tobacco and other substance use in the county. In 1999 data revealed the need to focus more specifically on youth alcohol and tobacco use. The coalition expressed particular concern with reported past 30 day use of alcohol (51 percent) and tobacco (42 percent) among 11th graders. This group reported easy access to both substances and inconsistent messaging from the community regarding youth tobacco and alcohol use. Interviews and listening sessions with youth and community members identified how youth accessed alcohol and tobacco and guided the implementation of a data-driven, comprehensive plan for each substance.