Representatives from Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation Drug and Alcohol Coalition recently returned from the Washington, D.C., area where they joined more than 2,700 substance abuse prevention specialists and advocates from throughout the country for Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America’s National Leadership Forum.

Attending the leadership forum were Sgt. Tony Ryan and Officer Tim Floyd, both with the Enumclaw Police Department; grant director Rene’ Popke; project coordinator Maria Blackwell; and parent coalition members Jonah Bell and Samantha Bellah.

The national forum covered a wide range of topics – from preventing prescription drug abuse and the abuse of synthetic drugs and marijuana to creating tobacco-free environments and developing policies to reduce underage and excessive drinking.

The coalition has recently impacted the community by hosting Reality House in September 2015, giving parents a look at what parties look like across the Plateau. Also in 2015, the coalition collected more than 100 pounds of prescription drugs as part of the DEA National take-back day. Steps have already begun for establishing tobacco-free locations and holding retail outlets responsible for not selling to minors. Other coalition members are putting steps in place to assist businesses with drug-free workplace policies. Reaching youth through upcoming events and making presentations in health classes also is under way.

While in DC, coalition members heard from federal leaders including Michael Botticelli, director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy and Congressman Hal Rogers (R-Ken.), who received CADCA’s National Leadership Award at the event. Coalition members also met with U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert and received information for potential funds to assist in the battle against youth substance abuse.

Anyone interested in helping the coalition’s effort is encouraged to contact Blackwell or Popke at the Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation, 360-802-3206.