We are a partnership of community members and individuals working together to foster atmosphere where children feel safe, secure, and included.

Since 1999, the Coalition has been providing programs and resources to build assets in our children, our families, and our community, to help reduce stress, alcohol use, drug use, violence, and other risky behavior among youth.  We are increasing and strengthening our Coalition through public meetings, an active central steering committee, an extended advisory committee, bringing in additional sponsors from area organizations, and dedicated community volunteers.

The Coalition is finding its direction to bring us into the 2021-2022 school year by accessing where there are gaps of services and resources. By doing assessments and community forums, we hope to identify ways to support the safety and well-being of the youth of the community.

Accomplishments of 2020-2021

Received a mini-grant through Montgomery County Drug and Alcohol Prevention Project to hire Ann Kanof, Data Analyst, to complete a Risk and Resource Assessment for the Coalition.

Presented the Results of the Assessment to community stakeholders in a Zoom meeting. From data collected, including the 2019 Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS), three (3) Risk Factors were identified as having a high need and high ability to change.

Facilitated two (2) town halls with students from the Lower Merion District, parents, and community stakeholders. The youth spoke about their experiences from this past year.

We are continuing our work with Ann Kanof by completing a community resource assessment to identify assets within our community and nearby communities. These resources could help address the needs or gaps identified in the Risk Assessment. Surveys were sent to community members, organizations, and individuals to work together to identify these resources and gaps.

We will be publishing a resource directory on the website once the data is compiled.