Our History

A journey of community commitment and lasting change

How We Started

The Cannon County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition (CCSAPC) was founded in 2019 in response to growing concerns about youth substance use and the impact of addiction on families throughout the county. Recognizing that prevention is most effective when it is community-driven, local leaders, educators, healthcare providers, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, and parents came together to form a collaborative network dedicated to addressing these challenges.

Even before receiving outside funding, the coalition began launching prevention programs in 2019, focusing on raising awareness, engaging youth, and building strong partnerships with schools and community organizations. In 2021, CCSAPC received its first major prevention funding, allowing the coalition to expand its efforts and implement evidence-based strategies aligned with the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF).

Since then, CCSAPC has secured more than $100,000 in grant funding, enabling the coalition to provide school and community education campaigns, support Red Ribbon Week activities, coordinate prescription drug take-back events, and create youth engagement opportunities such as leadership development and advocacy training. These initiatives not only reduce risk factors for substance use but also strengthen protective factors like resilience, positive peer connections, and strong family support.

Founding members of the Cannon County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition

Founding members of the Cannon County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition.

Left to right: Sgt. Will Johnson (Counter Drug Task Force), Pam Steakley (Facilitator), Glenn Steakley (Director), Norm Knox (Assistant Director), Elizabeth House (Secretary), and 1LT Sadi Swaney (Counter Drug Task Force).

Our Journey

Key milestones in our mission to build a healthier community

2019

Coalition Founded

Initial prevention programs launched through community partnerships.

Coalition founding ceremony in 2018
2021

First Prevention grant

Received first prevention grant funding to expand programming.

Students participating in prevention program activities
2021

Present

Secured more than $100,000 in grants to support prevention education, youth engagement, and community initiatives.

Community partners signing collaboration agreement

Today, CCSAPC serves as a central hub for prevention in Cannon County, bringing together diverse partners to protect and empower the next generation. By combining data-driven strategies with grassroots community action, the coalition continues to evolve to meet emerging challenges while remaining true to its founding commitment: building a safe, healthy, and drug-free community.

Our Impact

Measuring our progress in building a healthier community

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Students Reached
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Community Events
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Partner Organizations
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Years of Service

Since our founding, we've made measurable progress in substance abuse prevention across Cannon County. Our evidence-based programs have reached thousands of students, families, and community members, creating lasting positive change.

Through collaborative partnerships and community engagement, we've built a network of support that continues to grow stronger each year. Our impact extends beyond numbers—it's reflected in the lives changed, families strengthened, and communities united in our shared mission.

Diverse group of people collaborating around a table, representing community unity and teamwork in substance abuse prevention

Be Part of Our Story

Our history is still being written, and we invite you to be part of the next chapter. Together, we can continue building a healthier, stronger Cannon County.