Community Coalitions

BACODA’s three coalitions work to affect change in Southeast Harris with Southeast Harris County Community Coalition, Galveston with Galveston County Community Coalition, and Brazoria and Matagorda Counties with Gulf Coast Communtiy Coalition. Each coalition is unique and responds to the specific issues and concerns of their target area. But each coalition is the same in terms of the members; they all commit their time, their energy, and their hearts to create safer schools, safer neighborhoods, and safer communities for youth.

VISION: A community where young people are respected, appreciated, and provided the opportunity to live safe and healthy lives.

MISSION: The mission of BACODA’s coalition programs is to mobilize community resources in an effort to reduce the harmful impact of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse in our communities.

HOW: Coalitions differ from traditional services by using “environmental prevention strategies.” While direct service providers target the individual, coalitions work for change in the environment – such as educating the public on how the media influences youth behaviors or working with local law enforcement to find more effective ways to enforce underage drinking laws. “The most effective strategies for preventing drug use, keeping drugs out of neighborhoods and schools, and providing a safe and secure environment for all people are cooperative efforts that mobilize and involve all elements of a community.” (White House Office of National Drug Control Policy). Environmental prevention not only works, it is cost-effective and efficient. Long-lasting significant changes can occur in a relatively short period of time when accomplished through an environmental strategy.

For more information regarding Community Coalition Project services contact Kristi Allen.