About Our Youth Coalitions

Substance misuse is a challenge that affects families, schools, and communities across the country—and our region is no exception. That’s why we’re proud to support active and passionate coalitions in Central, Gans, and Sallisaw Public Schools,  all dedicated to preventing substance misuse and promoting healthy choices for our youth.
Each coalition is made up of students who are committed to making a positive difference where they live.
What Our Coalitions Do
  • Educate – We provide age-appropriate education for youth about the risks of alcohol, tobacco, vaping, and other drugs, helping people make informed decisions.
  • Engage – Through events like school assemblies, Red Ribbon Week and activities, our coalitions bring the community together to promote awareness and build connections.
  • Empower – We equip youth with leadership opportunities and give them a voice in prevention efforts, encouraging them to be role models for their peers.
  • Advocate – Our coalitions support policies and programs that reduce substance access and encourage a drug-free school zones.
  • Support – We offer resources for parents, students, and educators—including training, educational materials, and referrals to services—to strengthen protective factors and reduce risks.
Why It Matters
When local communities come together, we see real change. Our coalitions have helped increase awareness, improve communication between schools and families, and reduce stigma around mental health and substance use. Prevention is not just about saying “no” to drugs—it’s about building strong, connected, and informed communities where healthy choices are the norm.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a student looking to make a difference, a parent with questions, or a community leader who wants to help, there’s a place for you!