Dear Will County,

Youth in our communities who abuse substances often experience problems and concerns, including problems in school: decline in grades, poor attendance, performing poorly on a test or important project, getting into an argument or a fight, damaged school property, increased potential for dropping out of school, higher truancy problems, as well as cognitive and behavioral problems that may interfere with academic performance, as well as obstacles to learning for their classmates; health-related problems (including mental health), poor peer relationships, and involvement with the juvenile justice system.

Our Coalition focuses on coordination and collaboration, connecting multiple sectors of the community as a comprehensive approach to reducing substance abuse among our youth. Our goal is to reduce substance abuse among youth and over time, by addressing the factors in the community that increase the risk of substance abuse and promoting the factors that minimize the risk of substance abuse. Our Coalition members are engaged and valued for their input they actively participate in our evidence-based prevention strategies.

In an effort to build and strengthen our Coalition we have reached out to all areas of the county. Our Coalition focuses on a strategy that includes an evidenced-based model using a public health/awareness approach which incorporates public education/awareness, prevention, and intervention.