About Us

Our Mission

We focus on making the maximum positive effort for our community. Our members and volunteers provide the momentum that helps us affect change. Using data driven models, we provide solutions that make a long-lasting difference.


Our History

The Manatee County Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition (Drug Free Manatee) was founded in 2001. We develop community partnerships that implement comprehensive, evidence-based environmental strategies to prevent and reduce substance abuse while promoting health and wellness throughout the county, especially among youth.

The coalition is data driven. With knowledge about risk and protective factors, we implement researched-based strategies that provide information and support; enhance skills; change community norms to encourage health and wellness; modify/change policies; improve access and reduce barriers to resources.

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Drug Free Manatee is a 501C3 and receives grant support from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy/Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration for Drug Free Communities Support Program, the Florida Department of Children and Families and through local contributions. Drug Free Manatee is a substance abuse prevention coalition promoting safety, health and wellness in Manatee County.
Our Staff

Our staff of four dedicated individuals and board of trustees comprise Drug-Free Manatee.

Gayla Jones: Executive Director
Angelica Silvestre: Prevention Specialist
Ashley Paquin: Prevention Outreach Specialist

DRUG FREE MANATEE

SUPPORTING HEALTHY, RESILIENT COMMUNITIES THROUGH PREVENTION

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