NCJ Number
139366
Date Published
1991
Length
29 pages
Annotation
Intended to inform policymakers and practitioners in the field of alcohol prevention, this handbook explores the concept of networking and offers strategies and examples from the alcohol prevention field, based on evaluations of alcohol prevention programs in California.
Abstract
The first chapter explores the definition of networks and networking and describes their purposes, styles, and scope. "Networking" is defined as a "collection of individuals, groups, organizations, constituency groups, and agencies within a community who have mutual interests and/or common needs, and who link together either formally -- as do coalitions -- or informally by sharing information or working together on joint action towards common goals." The following primary functions of any given network are described: reinforcement and support of a social role, information flow, and action for mutual benefit. Chapter two reviews networking activities by those who plan and implement prevention programs. These activities are the development of recognition, legitimacy, and support; the obtaining of community input on needs assessment and problem identification, priority-setting, solution development, and other decisions; the recruitment of participants for program activities; the development or improvement of the coordination and referral mechanisms among providers; and the attraction of members of target populations to new or existing services. The third chapter examines lessons learned about networking in the evaluation of prevention programs. The discussion focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of various networking styles (personal or organizational), the reinforcement of social roles within the network, the channeling of information, collective action, and informal networks as essential to success.