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Better Together Coalition of Kanabec County (formerly SACK Coalition) 

October 25, 2021
Substance Abuse Coalition of Kanabec County changes name to Better Together

The Substance Abuse Coalition of Kanabec County (SACK) is changing its name to Better Together Coalition. While continuing to promote substance use prevention the coalition will also work to address mental wellness, resiliency, and recovery. 

The Substance Abuse Coalition of Kanabec County was established in 2006 when community members expanded their mission, previously focused only on methamphetamines, to also include prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use. 

Over the course of the last fifteen years, the coalition has been funded through various state and federal grants. Grant funds have been utilized to educate, change policies, systems, the environment, provide technical assistance, and collaborate with partnerships all to reduce overall substance use.

SACK projects have included working with county and city governments to pass a social host ordinance, form youth drug and substance free school groups, community education presentations, promotion of positive and substance free community activities, alcohol and tobacco compliance checks, installation of drug drop box, and much more.  

In March of 2020, the coalition’s ten-year federal funding cycle ended, however, the coalition’s commitment to provide positive community health outcomes did not. In a survey recently conducted by the coalition, mental health issues were atop the list of concerns for community members. Experts agree that mental health challenges can be a contributing factor when substances are abused and alternatively, substance abuse can also lead to mental health challenges.

Changing the coalitions name means we can encompass a broader vision to promote mental wellness, resiliency, substance use prevention, and recovery. There is not a linear approach to prevention and building a healthy community takes time, resources, and commitment. We are proud of the work we have done and the collaborative partnerships we have built. We know we our communities are better when we come together and now our name matches our mission.

We need everyone involved as we strive to promote our vision for positive community outcomes. If you would like to learn more or are interested in joining the coalition, please contact Allison Krueger at: allison.krueger@co.kanabec.mn.us or visit our website: www.better2gether.me


Coalition Goals                 
  • Increase Community Collaboration and Involvement          
  • Reduce alcohol, prescription drug use, vaping/e-cigarette use among youth and community members                   
  • Reduce binge drinking among youth and young adults 
  • Increase protective factors within the community to increase the health and well-being of children, their families and the community. 
  • Promote Mental Wellness and reduce stigma related to Mental Health Challenges
  • Educate and promote recovery and treatment of substance use and mental health issues


    For more information click here to visit the Better Together Coalition of Kanabec County website: www.better2gether.me