NCJ Number
189343
Date Published
March 2001
Length
50 pages
Annotation
For communities that want to reduce their underage drinking problem, putting together a broad-based coalition can produce substantial benefits; this guide describes steps that bring together a diverse group of people in pursuit of a common goal.
Abstract
Effective coalitions require an effective leader, so this guide details what is needed from the individual who coordinates the coalition effort either as a full-time or part-time staff person. Once this leader has been selected, the group can move forward in recruiting the appropriate members of the community. A coalition checklist is provided in the appendix; it presents a list of every conceivable organization that may have an interest or stake in the underage drinking issue. To make the process easier, the checklist asks individuals to rate the importance of each group as well as the likelihood of the group's involvement in the coalition efforts. Establishing a coalition can sometimes be easier than maintaining it. To assist communities in sustaining their underage drinking prevention coalition or organization, this booklet discusses ways to overcome obstacles and offers ideas about how to keep the effort going. In addition, the reader learns how coalitions can support critical programs in the community, including enforcement and education, thus making the coalition effort even more relevant to the key target groups. Finally, the guide details ways to market the coalition and provides concrete examples of how the coalition can communicate with the public and its members. In addition to the coalition membership checklist, the appendixes contain coalition member roles and responsibilities, a checklist of attributes for a good coordinator, pilot projects, and sample brochure and newsletter. A 25-item resource list