A multi-sector, multi-strategy approach, such as community coalition, is most likely to lead to success in substance abuse prevention. Community anti-drug coalitions can help reduce drug abuse significantly. Coalitions need enough time and flexibility to develop a sense of identity, a strategic plan, a membership base, funding resources, and an evaluation process. Some mobilization guidelines are to clearly define purpose and goals, be inclusive, involve ordinary citizens, encourage democratic decision making, communicate regularly, provide opportunities for action, and identify and build leadership. Steps to forming a community coalition are to get a small group of people together; define the problem and its impact on the community; identify key stakeholders; convene a first meeting; and begin the process of strategic planning. Some elements of successful coalitions are a mission statement, an understanding of the community, strategic planning, purposeful decisions, organizational structure, diversified and relevant funding, leadership, volunteers, representative membership and staff, diverse partners, and access to community leaders. Community coalitions can be successful when they meet the following needs of potential members: recognition, respect, role, relationship, reward, and results. Recruitment steps include identifying why members are needed; deciding what kind of members are needed; listing where new members can be found; and developing engaging messages for attracting new members. Suggestions for enhancing volunteer participation include delegating tasks, making the experience meaningful and enjoyable, and creating networking opportunities. A good strategic plan will keep the coalition on track, help coalition members develop and implement a prevention plan that is meaningful to their community, and outline what everyone should be doing to move toward the coalition’s goals. A funding base is needed for the coalition for the support of staff and other financial obligations. 7 appendices