Dallas Drug Free Youth Alliance
Join the coalition building a healthier, drug-free Dallas.
Teens, parents, educators, and community leaders co-creating prevention that actually works for our city. Your voice belongs here.
Substance use in Dallas isn’t a distant problem — it’s our neighbors, our classmates, our students. The data is sobering.
Substance use disorder is among the fastest-growing health concerns in Dallas County. In 2022, about 1 in 3 high school seniors, 1 in 5 sophomores, and 1 in 10 eighth-graders reported using an illicit substance in the past year.
Every one of these numbers represents a youth, a family, a future.
And every one of them is preventable. The coalitions that turn these numbers around are the ones that show up consistently — built by the people closest to the problem, and the people closest to the kids.That’s us.
And it could be you.
Who should join us?
Teens
Parents
Educators, community leaders, and professionals
What the coalition does
This is co-created, ground-up work. We listen first, then we build — alongside youth, families, local leaders, and stakeholders. Anyone who shows up with energy and ideas has a place in the room.
- Build prevention strategies that keep Dallas teens safe, healthy, and drug-free.
- Raise community awareness about the real risks of substance use — and the real protective factors that work.
- Advocate for the programs, policies, and partnerships that make a measurable difference in Dallas County.
What to expect at your first meeting
Meeting Format
In-person and welcoming, about 60 minutes; conversation and a clear agenda.
Who You'll Meet
A mix of teens, parents, school counselors, prevention professionals, healthcare workers, faith leaders, and community partners — anywhere from 15 to 50 people depending on the month.
What We Cover
Recent data on youth substance use, what’s working in other communities, current advocacy and awareness work, and where we need volunteers, ideas, and partnerships next.
What You Don't Need
Prior coalition experience. A long bio. A perfectly formed opinion. Just bring yourself and what you’re seeing.
After the Meeting
You’ll get a recap email and a list of ways to plug in based on your interests — from one-time volunteer asks to ongoing committee work.
Partner Organizations
Brighter Days is grateful to partner with over 90+ schools, shelters, recreation centers, and community-based organizations to deliver a comprehensive array of programs in over 40 zip codes throughout Dallas County.
Meet our MembersCoalition meeting schedule
All meetings are open. Register for each one you plan to attend so we have a head count.
Questions? Contact Coalition Coordinator: Mollie McGee molliem@brighterdaystx.org
Stay Connected
Not ready to attend yet? Stay in the loop.
Join the coalition mailing list to get monthly recaps, the data we’re tracking, and an early heads-up about volunteer opportunities and special events.