Research & Policy
Photo Home
Who We Are
Research & Policy

> Family
> Partners
> Community
> Web Links
> General

Policy
Family
Partners
Community
News Room



  Free To Grow
  Mailman School
  of Public Health
  Columbia University
  722 West 168th Street,
  8th Floor
  New York, NY 10032











green corner
NOTE: as of April 17, 2007, the Free to Grow program has closed.
Research & Policy

Drug free zones: A guide for community action
Diane Neely and David Grant

The authors contend that alcohol and the drug trade have exacerbated social problems in African-American neighborhoods. They also point out that fear, inaction, apathy, hopelessness, poor living conditions, and unclear community standards foster negative thinking and block positive change. The book documents how some communities have challenged neighborhood deterioration by adopting Drug Free Zones centered around community-based programs. Their purpose is to reduce neighborhood drug trafficking through empowerment and the actions of community coalitions.

Drug Free Zones contain community networks that organize block patrols, community services, and other events to rally the neighborhood against drug dealers. Legal means can be used to create a Drug Free Zone. Lawsuits can be brought against property owners where drug transactions occur. Another strategy is to launch a media campaign to bring the issue to the community. A successful media campaign can reach the target audience through an effective ATOD prevention message that builds awareness and creates motivation for creating Drug Free Zones.

African American Family Services
2616 Nicollet Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 871-7878
Fax: (612) 871-2567
(1991, 19 pp.; $4.95 + $4 p/h).





 

copyright 2008 Free To Grow
Disclaimer
Free To Grow is a national program supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation with direction and technical assistance provided by the Mailman School of Public Health of Columbia University.