Programs & Services > Community Coalition
Community Coalitions
People Reaching Out serves as a lead agency for community-based coalitions including teens, parents, educators, law enforcement, and community members who share the common goals of creating a safe and drug free community. PRO is currently a partner and coordinator of the Valley Hi Youth and Adult Coalition (VHYAC) that brings together youth and adults to address key health and safety issues. The coalition efforts are focused on creating youth leaders and champions for drug free communities.
Valley Hi Youth and Adult Coalition (VHYAC)
SRO from Valley High School and Jackman Middle School
For more information contact:
Erika Green
916-576-3300 ext.
erikag@peoplereachingout.org
What is a Coalition?
CADCA, the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, defines coalitions as a formal arrangement for collaboration between groups or sectors of a community, in which each group retains its identity but all agree to work together towards a common goal of building a safe, healthy and drug-free community.
Coalitions are successful prevention models because they connect different sectors of a community; students, business, law enforcement, community members and service providers; in a united front to battle issues of drugs, alcohol and crime that plague our neighborhoods.
Coalitions help to:
- Focus on an area of change important to the community - whether it's preventing underage drinking or creating a violence-free zone at the local school campuses
- Create policy change - advocate for change in their schools and communities such as an increase in after-school programs or the construction of a community center
- Cultivate leadership opportunities for youth - youth can learn skills such as public speaking, advocacy, and community organizing.