At the Alachua County Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) Coalition, we believe prevention starts with education, connection, and community support. Every year, our programs reach thousands of residents with one goal in mind: to help young people grow up safe, healthy, and drug-free.

Through Youth & Family Education initiatives such as Know the Law, Parent Sessions, and Youth Summit, HPW equips students with refusal skills, healthy coping strategies, and awareness about substance use risks. At the same time, we support parents and caregivers by providing practical tools that encourage open conversations at home.

Community Events like Friday Night Done Right, Town Hall, and the annual Run for Your Life 5K Color Run create drug-free spaces where families can connect and youth can have fun without pressure to use substances. These events also open doors for meaningful discussions and stronger relationships.

HPW also works to reduce underage access to substances through compliance checks, DEA National Drug Take Back Days, and safe medication storage programs. Since 2019, more than 1,000 pounds of unused medications have been safely collected—helping protect homes and the environment.

Together with our Youth Coalition, community partners, and volunteers, HPW continues to make a measurable impact across Alachua County. Whether you’re a parent, student, or local business owner, there’s a place for you in this movement.

Join us as we build a safer, healthier future—together.