Join an Existing Coalition
What are community coalitions?
A coalition is a voluntary, formal agreement and collaboration between groups or sectors of a community in which each group retains its identity but all agree to work together toward a common goal of building a safe, healthy, and drug-free community
Community coalitions are comprised of parents, teachers, law enforcement, businesses, religious leaders, health providers and other community activists who are mobilizing at the local level -- and nationally under the CADCA umbrella -- to make their communities safer, healthier and drug-free.
How do coalitions make a difference in communities?
Coalition building is a smart strategy that promotes coordination and collaboration and makes efficient use of limited community resources. By connecting multiple sectors of the community in a comprehensive approach, community coalitions are achieving real outcomes.
What is the difference between Coalitions and Programs?
|
|
Coalitions
|
Programs
|
|---|
|
Scale
|
Coalitions measure success by examining community level indicators. This applies to all coalition outcomes (short- and long- term).
|
Programs measure change in individuals who have been directly affected by the intervention(s).
|
|---|
|
Address Multiple Causes
|
Coalitions seek to ensure that all causes of identified problems are addressed
|
Programs are more focused on single strategies, e.g., parenting classes or peer mentoring.
|
|---|
|
Roles
|
Coalition activities are diffused and taken by all members with staff playing a coordinating or supporting role.
|
Program staff lead the process and are responsible for implementing
|
|---|
Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) is the leading substance misuse prevention organization, representing over 5,000 community-based coalitions across the United States and territories and more than 30 countries around the world who work to create safe, healthy, and drug-free communities.
If you’re ready to start a coalition in your community, CADCA’s Coalition Development Support Team is here to help! Please complete the brief online form below. Your information will be directed to our team who can help you develop a plan, recruit members, locate funding, and more. A representative from our team will reach out within 1-2 business days.
