Our Vision

The Chaffee County Youth Alliance (CCYA) is a local coalition that works to promote positive youth development and prevent unhealthy behaviors using an evidence-based framework called Communities that Care (CTC). CTC is a collaborative and research-based process that helps communities like ours create a better environment for young people.

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We are currently in Phase 5, the final phase of this ongoing community change process. Through careful analysis of local data, we have identified priority areas and mapped out the resources available in our community. Based on this information, our coalition has chosen specific, evidence-based strategies to address the risk factors our youth face. Our action plans were put into motion in September 2019, and we have already made significant progress in various areas while building strong partnerships throughout the county.

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We owe our success to the incredible support we receive from our community partners and supporters who dedicate their time and energy to attend meetings and contribute to our cause. We also want to express our gratitude to the youth councils that play a vital role in guiding our efforts. The Extraordinary Teen Council and B.V. 5th Quarter, made up of passionate students from Salida and Buena Vista High Schools, are committed to creating a thriving community for all young people.

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Our work focuses on addressing specific risk factors based on local data. Here are the three key risk factors we are currently prioritizing:

 

Availability of substances:

• Communities with easy access to alcohol, marijuana, and other drugs face a higher risk of youth substance use and violence.

• When young people believe that drugs are readily available, the rates of drug use tend to be higher.

• Favorable laws, unclear regulations, or community acceptance of substance use contribute to increased risk among youth.

 

Early initiation of substance use:

• Starting drug use, engaging in criminal activities, or dropping out of school at an early age can lead to long-term problems.

• Research shows that those who start using drugs before age 15 are twice as likely to experience drug-related issues compared to those who start after age 19.

 

Parental attitudes and involvement in substance use:

• Parents' attitudes and behaviors towards drugs, crime, and violence significantly influence their children's attitudes and behaviors.

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We are dedicated to creating a community where all youth can thrive, and we appreciate your support in our efforts. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or want to get involved. Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of our young people.