NCJ Number
143656
Date Published
1992
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This bulletin is designed to assist communities in forming anti-drug coalitions by describing the characteristics of successful coalitions and providing examples of how communities have mobilized their resources against drugs.
Abstract
The most effective community coalitions against drugs share these common organizing strategies: clear, precise goals; specific objectives that are measurable; strong leadership; commitment to planned action; use of programs that get visible results; and evaluation of each program as a basis for improvement. Steps in the formation of a coalition are the creation of a core leadership group, the assessment of community needs and resources, the recruitment of members for the antidrug coalition, the development of a community antidrug plan, and concentration on a few goals. Some coalition activities that have proven effective are to work with police to make public settings free of drugs and violence, to develop programs that work with juveniles who have dropped out of school, to strengthen drug treatment and followup in the criminal justice system, and to improve drug policies and programs in community businesses. Other topics discussed are how to keep the coalition active and true to its objectives, evaluation and report on progress, and information and technical assistance. 6 notes and sources of additional information