About KLASAC: Communities and Schools Working Together

The Klickitat-Lyle Against Substance Abuse Coalition (KLASAC) formed in October of 2013 by combining the small towns of Klickitat and Lyle in their efforts to prevent substance abuse. That year Prevention Clubs were formed in the Klickitat and Lyle Middle and High Schools which led to the formation of TADAA! (Teens Against Drug and Alcohol Abuse). TADAA! has since evolved into TADAA(Teens Advocating for Drug and Alcohol Awareness) TADAA is a combined effort of prevention clubs from both schools and has had participation of over 50 young people between the ages of 12 – 18 over the past 5 years.

KLASAC has a full-time coordinator and 1 part-time Prevention/Intervention Specialist in each school district. Our coalition includes members representing both school districts, ESD 112, local law enforcement, mental health and treatment providers, local government, local businesses, parents, youth, civic organizations, youth serving organizations, and local media. Our coalition is built around an evidence based community coalition model.

With increased staff and local leadership capacity KLASAC has developed a Strategic Plan based on data from our School Districts’ combined Healthy Youth Survey, local data related to substance abuse, and our annual Community Surveys. This plan is updated annually by the coalition.