In early 2003, a comprehensive assessment of adolescent substance abuse, prevention, intervention, and treatment was completed. As a result, numerous programs were implemented, culminating in the formation of the Drug-Free Coalition by members of the original task force.
Funding was secured through the Drug-Free Communities Grant for ten years, followed by a three-year grant from the local school system. The coalition began collaborating with various agencies in Queen Anne’s County and in 2015, the Drug-Free Coalition separated from the QA County Health Department, allowing successful activities to continue independently. The Coalition has secured additional grants for drug-free communities over the years.
The Drug-Free Coalition has expanded to encompass a broader range of civic and social organizations and medical and religious institutions. The Mid-Shore Community Foundation manages donations, and the QA County Commissioners actively participate in the Coalition’s efforts. The Coalition continues to thrive through community donations and is currently working with partners on an Opioid Prevention and Education Grant.
The mission of the Drug-Free Coalition remains unchanged: TO PROMOTE HEALTHY AND SAFE COMMUNITIES BY REDUCING THE USE AND MISUSE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS, WITH A FOCUS ON ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS.
QAC Goes Purple is an initiative from the Queen Anne's County Office of the Sheriff and Queen Anne's County Drug-Free Coalition, in partnership with the Opioid Intervention Team/QAC Department of Health, Queen Anne's County Public Schools, Queen Anne County Commissioners, and Mid-Shore Community Foundation. The substance abuse awareness and prevention program empowers our youth and our community to ‘Go Purple’ as a sign of taking a stand against substance abuse.
The project promotes education and awareness, including the creation of purple clubs in our middle and high schools, through which students learn they do not need drugs or alcohol to meet life’s challenges.