HC-HK Coalition included in a National Conference

The Healthy Communities-Healthy Kids Coalition will be showcased at the 24th National Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) Leadership Forum, the premier training conference for community-based substance abuse prevention professionals, coalition leaders and prevention and addiction researchers, which is taking place February 3-6, 2014 in National Harbor, Maryland. The Coalition was selected to participate in the Coalition Ideas Fair for their application on “Sustainability through Community Engagement”. Prevention Coordinator Kathryn Glendon submitted a proposal on behalf of the Coalition focusing on its ability to engage Haddam and Killingworth youth and adults in efforts to educate, implement strategies, and change policy to advance the wellness of the community.

“Due to the dedication and passion of the members, the Coalition has engaged multiple community partners from a variety of sectors to further their mission and to sustain itself,” said Prevention Coordinator Kathryn Glendon.

The Coalition’s approach to building sustainability focuses on utilizing its members and various strategies to target all community sectors. These strategies consist of personal meetings, supporting common community interests, appeal letters, solicitation, social media, presentations, state-wide collaboration, attending non-related coalition events, fundraisers and creating community awareness. This engagement has led to increased membership, free meeting locations, donated food, advertising space, monetary donations, and media exposure.

The Healthy Communities-Healthy Kids Coalition is a member of CADCA which is the national membership organization representing over 5,000 coalitions and affiliates working to make America’s communities safe, healthy and drug-free. CADCA’s National Leadership Forum brings together over 2,700 participants representing coalitions from all regions of the country and internationally, government leaders, youth, prevention specialists, addiction treatment professionals, addiction recovery advocates, researchers, education institutions, law enforcement professionals, and faith-based leaders

Comprised of dedicated volunteers in Haddam and Killingworth, the Healthy Communities-Healthy Kids Coalition is engaging youth and adults in advancing wellness. Funding is provided by the Drug Free Communities Support Program of the U.S. Department of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. To learn more and get involved, visit www.hc-hk.org.