National Evaluation Finds DFC Coalitions Effective at Reducing Substance Abuse

The latest results from the National Evaluation of the Drug Free Communities Support Program found that coalitions funded by DFC grants have not only been successful at reducing drug and alcohol use in their communities, they have also increased the perception of risk for marijuana, alcohol and tobacco use among youth.

For example, the evaluation found that past 30-day use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana declined significantly and in all grade levels (middle school, high school) between DFC coalitions’ first and most recent data report. In addition, the prevalence of 30-day use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana was lower for high school students in DFC-funded communities than among a nationally representative sample of high school students taking the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS).

“The Drug Free Communities program embodies the Obama Administration’s dedication to evidence-based community prevention efforts that protect the health of our young people,” said ONDCP Director R. Gil Kerlikowske. “Data show that communities receiving DFC funding have seen significant reductions in past 30-day use of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana among middle and high school students. I applaud the hard work of local community leaders, youth, parents, educators, healthcare professionals, faith-based leaders, law enforcement officials, and others who are working together daily to strengthen communities and save kids’ lives.”

Equally significant was the finding that the perception of risk increased significantly for alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use among youth served by DFC coalitions. The positive change in perception of risk was particularly strong for alcohol use. Youth perception of parental disapproval increased significantly for alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use.

The evaluation noted that DFC coalitions are having a positive impact on millions of youth and adults throughout the country. DFC coalitions cover a significant portion of the United States. In FY 2009, more than 7 million youth lived in communities served by DFC coalitions in all 50 states and territories. National DFC estimates suggest a reduction of 181,000 youth using alcohol, a reduction of 200,000 youth using tobacco, and a reduction of nearly 115,000 youth using marijuana.