2008.10.08
Roanoke County Prevention Council selected for National Grant and finalist for National Award
In the month of September, the Roanoke County Prevention Council has been awarded a five year Drug Free Communities Grant from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and selected as a finalist for the National Got Outcomes Award by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America.
John Walters, Director of National Drug Control Policy announced the award of $24.4 million in Drug Free Communities grants to 199 communities across the country. Roanoke County Prevention Council is one of the recipients of these grants in the amount of $625,000 over the next five years, beginning October 1, 2008. "The Drug-Free Communities program helps communities get the hard work of prevention done," said SAMHSA Administrator Terry Cline, Ph.D. "By connecting local programs, systems and funding streams through these grants, the full force of the community will be brought to bear on preventing drug abuse and promoting healthy, productive lives."
The DFC program provides this grant to community organizations that facilitate citizen participation in local drug prevention efforts. The Roanoke County Prevention Council is a coalition whose bench strength is rooted in its partnership with Roanoke County Schools, parents, youth, faith, business, and other community leaders The Council was selected from over 400 applicants through a competitive peer review process.
The Community Anti Drug Coalitions of America "Got Outcomes" Quality Award recognizes community groups which have successfully impacted substance abuse problems in their community. In partnership with the Roanoke County Schools, the Council has administered a bi-annual survey for all middle and high school youth to measure the effects of its anti-drug, alcohol and bullying message since 2002. The trend data from this instrument has demonstrated that when a community comes together, prevention does work.
"It has been an exciting month," stated Council Coordinator Nancy Hans. It is so gratifying to receive federal support for the Council's work over the next five years and to receive national recognition for the results of our partnership." "None of this could be possible without the support and commitment of our community partners who work together every day to promote a healthy future for our youth."
