CADCA’s Coalition Competencies

What does it take to build and sustain an effective coalition? The answer lies in CADCA’s Coalition Competencies, a research-backed framework designed to strengthen your work. Developed in partnership with the Center for Public Health Systems Science at Washington University in St. Louis, these competencies are the result of more than three years of research and input from coalition leaders. They outline the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for effective coalition work.

 

Coalition Competencies are organized into three domains:

  • Operations: Building and sustaining coalition infrastructure.
  • Communauté: Effectively engaging and partnering with community members.
  • Prevention: Implementing specialized strategies for lasting impact.

There are 18 essential, research-backed areas that fit into each of these domains and are designed to advance the work of coalition leaders, funders, and other partners. Learn more about the competencies through the following resources.

Explore the Competencies

S'inscrire maintenant! Our monthly Competencies in Focus webinar series kicks off in April 2025. Each session will highlight a specific competency and offer practical ways for coalitions to start applying the framework to their work. The first webinar, Competencies in Focus: Sustainability, takes place on April 23 at 12 PM ET. We’ll explore what truly drives sustainability and break down the eight key areas that are critical to your coalition’s future. The webinar will also include a practical example from the field, demonstrating how a coalition used planning for sustainability to build lasting partnerships and adapt to challenges.

Register Now