YOUTHTHINK – Partnering with youth to prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, other drugs and other harmful behaviors

We Challenge You! - To become an active member of our coalition. We welcome youth, parents, all concerned citizens. We value your input, time and commitment in the efforts of making Wasco County a healthier place to live.

Our Vision – We work toward a community free of the effects of substance abuse, where all members especially young people, have equal access to opportunities in order to flourish and live healthy meaningful lives.

Our Mission – To provide a unified community force promoting healthy life style choices, focusing on the prevention and reduction of youth substance use and other negative risk behaviors.

Our Values – The work of the YOUTHTHINK Coalition is rooted in the values of inclusion and equity and draws on the strengths of individuals and the power of an engaged community.

What Are We Involved In –
Research: We participate in an annual statewide student survey for 8th and 11th graders called the Oregon Healthy Teen Survey. This survey gathers information on alcohol and other drug use, violence and safety issues, as well as sexual behaviors. The coalition is also currently working with the Oregon Research Institute in the Reducing Youth Access to Alcohol project.

Social Marketing: We create marketing campaigns that help to raise awareness among youth, parents and those who care about youth and families, encouraging and influencing all involved to make healthier choices – the best choices.

Environment: We work with local and county law enforcement, city and county governments, school boards and local chambers as they support and create laws and ordinances that promote a positive environment for youth and families.

Web of Influence: We believe that to truly have a positive impact, our coalition must be more than just a program or a series of activities. We must take on a strategy that encompasses the whole individual. We call this our “web of influence” and in doing so develop strategies that impact the following: family, peer, school, community and society.

What Is Prevention? YOUTHTHINK is a coalition committed to principles including:

1. Utilizing a holistic approach for addressing risk and protective factors and the circles of influence on young people.
2. Addressing societal and root causes of substance abuse by assessing health and achievement disparities.
3. Partnering with youth to help them make wise choices. Taking their lead.
4. Helping to change community norms about underage drinking, drugs and tobacco use.
5. Encouraging parents and children to communicate openly about drugs, alcohol and tobacco at an earlier age.