Reality Check Coalition Targets Teen Substance Abuse in Three Neighborhoods
Nov 7th, 2009
The Mission of the Milwaukee Reality Check Coalition is to reduce access to and use of alcohol, tobacco and marijuana among Milwaukee youth by changing social norms through comprehensive prevention and health promotion strategies. Since 2001 the Reality Check Coalition (RCC) has been leading the cause to eliminate and reduce the access and availability of these harmful substances to minors in the City of Milwaukee.
Safe & Sound is a key member of the coalition and a funded partner. The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee is the lead agency, with Adrian Thomas coordinating the five year effort. Safe & Sound’s role involves input into the strategic planning process with other counties throughout the State of Wisconsin and the steering committee. Additionally, input, identification, and action on top priority areas is an important responsibility of the coalition team. Participating agencies include the Milwaukee Police Department, the District Attorney’s office, and the Department of Neighborhood Services, as well as a variety of business, religious, youth development and social service agencies in Milwaukee.
Safe & Sound’s role is extremely important to the success of the project to be implemented in the Historic Southwest, Sherman East and WAICO Amani neighborhoods. Among the possible strategies the coalition may implement is the Gold Star Initiative. It is intended to support the City of Milwaukee efforts to educate and enforce alcohol signage ordinances and work with store owners to combat sales to minors and restricting items considered drug paraphernalia. Another important role for the Community Partners is the engagement of community leaders and residents to get involved in changing social norms. Safe Place youth will contribute by spreading the message among their peers and the surrounding neighborhood.
The opportunity to come together in the true essence of partnership to address teen alcohol and drug use in Milwaukee is upon us. A new Reality Check Coalition is in formation and taking action!
