Prevention Framework and Funding

Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) Model

Prevention coalitions are pressed to put in place solutions to urgent substance misuse problems facing their communities. But research and experience have shown that prevention must begin with an understanding of these complex behavioral health problems within their complex environmental contexts; only then can communities establish and implement effective plans to address substance misuse. To facilitate this understanding, SAMHSA developed the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF). The five steps and two guiding principles of the SPF offer prevention planners a comprehensive approach to understanding and addressing the substance misuse and related behavioral health problems facing their states and communities.

The SPF is also guided by two cross-cutting principles that should be integrated into each of the steps that comprise it:

Cultural Competence: The ability of an individual or organization to understand and interact effectively with people who have different values, lifestyles, and traditions based on their distinctive heritage and social relationships.

Sustainability: The process of building an adaptive and effective system that achieves and maintains desired long-term results.

1. Assessment:

Identify local prevention needs based on data
(i.e., What is the problem?)

2. Capacity:

Build local resources and readiness to address prevention needs
(i.e., What do you have to work with?)

3. Planning:

Find out what works to address prevention needs and how to do it well
(i.e., What should you do and how should you do it?)

4. Implementation:

Deliver evidence-based programs and practices as intended
(i.e., How can you put your plan into action?)

5. Evaluation:

Examine the process and outcomes of programs and practices
(i.e., Is your plan succeeding?)

Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Requirements: Results Framework

ASSESSMENT

Understand the substance abuse-related problems in the community.

Key Requirements:

Collect and analyze data to understand the patterns, types, and reasons for substance use among youth in the community.
Engage in community-wide discussions and forums to gauge perceptions, concerns, and feedback.

CAPACITY

Strengthen community alliances and resources.

Key Requirements:

Establish or strengthen a community coalition that involves multiple sectors, including youth, parents, businesses, schools, media, law enforcement, religious organizations, and other key stakeholders.
Identify and secure resources, both human and financial, that can be mobilized to address the identified substance abuse issues.

PLANNING

Develop a comprehensive strategy that aligns with the DFC’s goals.

Key Requirements:

Use evidence-based practices and programs known to reduce youth substance use.
Prioritize initiatives that are culturally relevant and address specific substance abuse challenges unique to the community.
Set clear objectives and measurable outcomes

IMPLEMENTATION

Put the plan into action.

Key Requirements:

Launch community-wide prevention programs, campaigns, and initiatives that resonate with the target audience.
Engage community members, especially youth, in the implementation phase to ensure widespread acceptance and participation.
Follow federal guidelines and regulations related to funding and program delivery

EVALUATION

Measure the impact of the initiatives.

Key Requirements:

Regularly collect and analyze data to track the progress of the program’s objectives.
Adjust strategies based on feedback and evolving community needs.
Report outcomes to the ONDCP and SAMHSA as required by the DFC grant stipulations