Coalition Building Toolkit

Coalitions are a necessary part of prevention in higher education. 

The health and well-being concerns of students are broad and diverse, and one individual (or one entity on campus) cannot deal with these problems alone. This toolkit developed by Partners in Prevention is meant to be a helpful guide as you work to build and maintain a coalition. You can do these steps in or out of the order listed, and some steps will occur simultaneously. Use each step as a guide when you need it rather than as a checklist that must be done one after the other. 

Click here to download How to Use This Toolkit (Word)

Step 1: Cultivate broad, diverse coalition membership

Step 2: Determine the strengths and resources of your coalition and its members

Step 3: Institute a coalition structure with strong governance

Step 4: Encourage buy-in for your coalition

Step 5: Use a data-informed decision-making process

Step 6: Write a strategic plan that includes a clear mission and vision

Step 7: Meet regularly and facilitate effective coalition meetings

Step 8: Train and educate coalition members

Step 9: Recognize the hard work of members and celebrate accomplishments

Step 10: Sustain your coalition