The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has renewed its commitment to a statewide network of substance use prevention coalitions — the Alliance for Wisconsin Youth — by awarding grants to three partners, according to a recent press release. The Alliance for Wisconsin Youth supports the work of more than 100 community coalitions dedicated to reducing the issues that arise from the use of drugs.
Initially created by DHS in 2007 as an organization focused on reducing substance use among youth, the Alliance for Wisconsin Youth now focuses on substance use prevention for all ages. Regional coordinators support local coalitions in implementing media campaigns, presentations, programs, and other activities, as well as policies that limit access, availability, and acceptability of alcohol and other drugs to reduce the impact of substance use on individuals and communities.
Alliance for Wisconsin Youth regional coordinators are also known as regional prevention centers and provide guidance and funding to coalitions in their service areas. There are five regions: northeastern, northern, southeastern, southern, and western. The coordinator for the southern region — which includes Dane County — is Northeastern Wisconsin Area Health Education Center.
The Marshfield Clinic Research Institute is the regional coordinator for all federally recognized tribal nations.
The regional coordinators have been awarded $120,919 per region each year for the next five years. Marshfield Clinic Research Institute and Northeastern Area Health Education Center each are due to receive $241,838 per year, as both support two regions. Community Advocates has been awarded $120,919 per year.
The grants are funded by Wisconsin’s share of the federal Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant. Find more information on the Alliance for Wisconsin Youth website, including details about how to establish a coalition.
People interested in substance use prevention are invited to attend the 2023 Wisconsin Substance Use Prevention Conference in the Wisconsin Dells Sept. 13–14 to learn about best practices to build healthy communities. Virtual attendance is available. Registration is required. See the agenda and register by Sept. 13.
