United Lakewood Community Coalition
About the Coalition: Communities & Schools Working Together
The United Lakewood Community Coalition, a key component of the Community Prevention and Wellness Initiative (CPWI), is dedicated to fostering a healthier community through evidence-based substance use prevention strategies. Funded by the Washington State Health Care Authority, the Coalition leverages the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) and Communities That Care model to address community needs. Our coordinator is based at the LINCNW offices, a local nonprofit organization that also operates the Marysville Family Resource Center.
Comprised of diverse stakeholders, including educators, healthcare providers, government officials, and community organizations, the Coalition works collaboratively to:
- Assess community needs: Identify areas of concern related to substance use and mental health.
- Develop prevention strategies: Implement evidence-based programs tailored to local needs.
- Leverage community assets: Partner with organizations to enhance impact.
- Measure progress: Evaluate outcomes to inform future initiatives.
By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, the Coalition aims to promote health, wellness, and a brighter future for all residents of Lakewood.
Together, we are working to build a brighter future for Lakewood students.
Coalition News
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The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day in 2026 is scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This nationwide event, which happens twice a year, is a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs at locations in communities throughout the country. Hosted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) This event, since 2010, this initiative has removed over 20 million pounds of unwanted medications from communities across the United States.
Most people who misuse prescription drugs get them from family, friends, and acquaintances. You can make a difference by keeping track of the medicine you have, by rethinking where and how you keep your medications in your home, and by safely disposing of any unused medications
Please note *Syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs are not collected.
If you would like to mail in your prescriptions at any time, free sealable bags can be picked up during business hours at LincNW located at 1424 172nd St. NE Marysville, WA 98271.
Other local take back locations can be found here Take Back Day locations
Year round drop off locations can be found here: Home - Safe Drug Disposal - Washington
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Join the Youth Advisory Council for the 26/27 school year! The Washington State Department of Health is inviting young people to apply to join the Youth Advisory Council. Youth Engagement and the Youth Advisory Council | Healthier Washington Collaboration Portal
Members meet virtually 1–2 times a month to share feedback and ideas on important adolescent health topics and collaborate on public health projects. They work closely with DOH staff to help shape programs that support teen and young adult health.
Who can apply?
-To be eligible to apply, young people must meet the following criteria at the time of their application: Age 13–22 and living in Washington Have reliable internet access
-Can attend meetings by Zoom, and can use online communications tools like Basecamp and GroupMe
-Have experience with or an interest in improving health care, public health, or other health-related topics.
If interested, apply here: Youth Advisory Council (YAC) 2026-2027 Application
![InvitingLakewoodCommunitySurveyFlyer11x8268in1 (PDF)]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1773940754/lwsdwednetedu/a7zhp4zkjqzang43y9y1/InvitingLakewoodCommunitySurveyFlyer11x8268in1.pdf","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1773940754/lwsdwednetedu/a7zhp4zkjqzang43y9y1/InvitingLakewoodCommunitySurveyFlyer11x8268in1.pdf","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1773940754/lwsdwednetedu/a7zhp4zkjqzang43y9y1/InvitingLakewoodCommunitySurveyFlyer11x8268in1.pdf","width":792}])
We invite you, as an important part of the Lakewood community, to participate in the 2026 Lakewood Community Survey, conducted through the Health Care Authority (HCA) in partnership with the United Lakewood Coalition. Your voice, insights, and lived experiences are essential to identifying community strengths, needs, and priorities related to substance use and mental health in and around Lakewood.
By taking part in this survey, you will help guide the United Lakewood Coalition and its partners in shaping future programs, services, and decisions that support the health and well-being of Lakewood students and families.
To access the links:
![A person with their eyes closed and hand on their chest stands in the foreground against a colorful gradient background with text about mental health and substance prevention and a pill icon.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1776181556/lwsdwednetedu/gu6bxfe3brlmtzy5nojf/Designer28.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1776181556/lwsdwednetedu/gu6bxfe3brlmtzy5nojf/Designer28.png","width":450}])
Articles and Research about Mental Health and Substance Abuse
At the United Lakewood Coalition, we believe that access to information can empower individuals, families, and communities. This section highlights articles, research, and educational materials related to mental health, substance use, prevention, and recovery.
Come and understand the importance of Narcan & recognizing overdose symptoms. Presented by Dr. Rachel Burrington of the Stillaguamish Behavioral Health Program.
All attendees will be offered free Narcan kits.
United Lakewood Community Coalition Mission
The United Lakewood Community Coalition is a collaborative partnership dedicated to fostering resilience and promoting healthy living, diversity, and awareness within our community. Rooted in substance use prevention science and services, we actively engage with local social services, governments, and businesses to provide sustainable support to students and families. By addressing the unique needs of our community, we empower them to make informed choices and lead fulfilling lives.
Contact Us
Leaha Boser
United Lakewood Community Coalition Coordinator
lboser@lwsd.wednet.edu
Mark Howard
Student Assistance Professional
mhoward@lwsd.wednet.edu
About the Community Prevention and Wellness Initiative (CPWI)
CPWI is a partnership of state agencies, counties, schools, and local prevention coalitions supporting communities in preventing alcohol and other drug abuse and its negative consequences. CPWI priorities include reducing underage drinking, vaping, marijuana use and opioid misuse/abuse among middle and high school aged youth. By providing evidence-based practices and promoting the positive changes in communities, we can build healthier communities.