LEADER WORKS ON DRUG TASK FORCE

AUSTELL - In an effort to get community groups on the same page, Cobb
Community Collaborative Director Maggie Williams is leading the effort to
train the Marietta Loop Group to become a drug task force, modeled after
Austell's and Powder Spring's prevention programs.

The Marietta Loop Group is a community organization that helps collect
litter from city streets but is looking to branch out into other areas of
service.

Ms. Williams, program director of the Cobb Community Collaborative,
provides technical support for the Austell and Powder Springs task forces
to help families stay clear of drugs. She employs a holistic approach,
dealing not only with children, but with school staff and, most
importantly, the children's families.

"You can't just teach children about drug prevention if their parents are
doing it," Ms. Williams said. "If a child hears about the dangers of drugs,
and their parents are doing them, the point is not clear."

In Austell, she said, the primary focus is the Six Flags Drive area.

The collaborative is a comprehensive network of organizations representing
more than 60 stakeholders, including elected officials, schools, law
enforcement, the faith community, social services, health providers,
businesses and concerned citizens who want to make the community drug free.

"When you're organized, you can do great things," Ms. Williams said.

Ms. Williams recently attended a national leadership forum, where she was
offered insights on emerging trends and techniques in drug prevention and
coalition building.

After the forum, participants went to Capitol Hill to discuss substance
abuse with elected representatives.

While there, Ms. Williams met with U.S. Rep. Johnny Isakson (R-east Cobb).
She said the congressman assured her he would work on making sure funding
continues to be available for drug-free programs.

The Cobb collaborative, which receives about $75,000 a year, consists of
Ms. Williams, one part-time assistant and many volunteers. The money comes
from the federal Drug Free Community Support Program.

In addition, the collaborative receives state and regional funds and
private donations for various programs.