Correlates of coalition effectiveness: the Smoke Free Class of 2000 Program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Community Health Programs

Background:

• The Smoke Free Class of 2000 program aimed to reduce youth smoking through school-based coalitions.
• State and local coalitions were established to implement this program nationwide.
• Understanding coalition dynamics is crucial for program success and sustainability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the activity and effectiveness of state and local coalitions involved in the Smoke Free Class of 2000 program.
• To identify challenges faced by these coalitions.
• To provide recommendations for improving coalition functioning.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted in 1990 with 50 state and local coalitions.
• Data collected included perceived activity, effectiveness, and identified areas of concern.
• Statistical analysis explored relationships between coalition characteristics and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Nearly all surveyed coalitions (95%) reported moderate to high activity levels.
• An estimated 88,900 second-grade teachers received program materials.
• Top concerns cited were funding, competing priorities, coordination, and personnel availability.

Conclusions:

• Coalition effectiveness was linked to personnel barriers and the formality of coalition structure.
• Coalition activity correlated with personnel barriers, coalition structure, and the number of elementary schools served.
• Recommendations included formalizing agreements, clarifying goals, and improving group cohesion and national expectations.