The Drug-Free Communities (DFC) program is a federally funded initiative that supports local coalitions in their efforts to prevent and reduce youth substance use by strengthening collaboration among community partners. It is funded by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) in partnership with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Who We Are
The North Mississippi Youth Coalition (NMYC) is a University of Mississippi–based initiative working to reduce alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use among youth in Lafayette County. Led by Director Sarah Bilsky (Department of Psychology) and Co‑Director Hannah Allen (William Magee Institute for Student Wellbeing), with Project Coordinator Madeline Cook—an Oxford native and 2024 Ole Miss graduate—we unite leaders from 12 community sectors: parents, businesses, media, schools, youth-serving organizations, faith-based organizations, law enforcement, civic groups, healthcare, youth, state agencies, and other substance use prevention organizations.
Together, we use evidence-based strategies to promote well-being, prevent substance use, and create a healthier future for local youth. We also provide engaging presentations that help community members support emotional regulation and recognize, prevent, and address substance use in adolescents.
