Breakout Session #2

Breaking the Labels

- AADAC’s Youth Advisory Council

Youth are often labelled as being selfish, reckless and impulsive. This group breaks all of the rules. Come meet AADAC's Youth Advisory Council (YAC). This presentation will demonstrate the benefit of involving youth in developing programs and resources to treat and prevent addictions. Youth will describe who they are and what they do as YAC members. They will speak to their experiences and thoughts about the importance of being 'youth inclusive'. Prepare for a fun-filled, youth-led session! Review Presentation

Finding the funding to do the work

- Debbie Hagman (Alberta Municipal Affairs), Edith Zuidhof—Knoop (Edson and District Drug Action Society)

This session will offer practical ideas and tips for where to look for the funding support needed to make your coalition dreams a reality.  We will talk about sources of grant funding and things you should consider before applying.  We'll also explore how to build relationships and funding support with local business or industry partners in your own community.  Review Presentation

The Power of Positive Media Coverage

- Annette Bereznicki (AADAC),Spencer Schneider (Bow Valley Young Adult Coalition)

Generating positive media coverage about your coalitions work is more than just giving interviews.  Learn more about how you can work effectively with your local media to create a better understanding about substance abuse issues and help you generate positive community awareness and action. A practical example will be given of how one  coalition in the Bow Valley worked with their media to reframe the issue from a fear-based to a strength based approach. Review Presentation

Balancing Enforcement and Community Action

- Badlands Drug Coalition, Edmonton Drug Strategy & Wainwright Area Social Action Committee

Enforcement is a big component of a balanced strategy to address substance abuse issues.  This panel will share their experience as coalitions in working ‘hand—in—hand’ with their enforcement partners, taking shared responsibility for community action.