Alcohol and drug abuse not only affect the individual, but the entire community. No single person or organization alone is capable of, nor responsible for solving the substance abuse problem. It is now important that schools establish partnerships with the community to develop and implement appropriate programs to foster healthy adolescent development. Positive reinforcement should be given to drug-free activities that keep the community message consistent and clear. Dade County, Florida youth face grave dangers in the fight against drug abuse. Availability and acceptance of drugs in Miami, Florida requires problem solving efforts by families, schools, and community organizations. Schools can engage the community to help win the war against drug abuse. To achieve success schools need to support parents, non-parents, the business community, and others. The most successful drug prevention programs recognize prevention as an ongoing process that changes from day-to-day and is different in every community. A good program acknowledges that drugs are here to stay. Drug abuse is not just a school problem, it is a community problem. If the family unit is to survive as society's most powerful institution, it must join forces with the community to gain the support of its added strength that insures everyone within the community a future firmly rooted in community education. (ABL)