The mission of United Southside Neighborhood Coalition (USNC) is to bring awareness and strategies to prevent substance misuse, mental health disorders, and promote safe and healthy behaviors. The coalition works with youth, families and community members to help reduce underage drinking, marijuana misuse and abuse in the community. This is done by having community education in the schools and outside of the schools via community events, social media, and training. In addition, we are able to partner with an organization that offers an evidenced-based program to families to reduce substance abuse and increase family management. The coalition will impact many of the community members by having a social media presence on Facebook, Instagram and by holding major community events in which individuals learn about the harmful effects of substance use and misuse. USNC is able to collaborate with youth groups from middle school and high school in the area. The coalition will host an annual awards ceremony that brings together youth from the community to celebrate all the accomplishments of its partners. Moreover, USNC will work to change laws and policies by working with local officials from the City and law enforcement to implement and enforce a social host ordinance and maintain or reduce the number of liquor licenses, smoke shops and marijuana dispensaries in the community.
