What does the Commission on Substance Abuse actually do?
The United Way of Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse (UWBCCSA) is a community anti-drug coalition whose prime purpose is to coordinate the county's efforts to reduce substance abuse and its devastating consequences on individuals, families and communities. The UWBCCSA is primarily a coalition-building organization that brokers partnerships between federal, state and local agencies to foster, develop and enhance integrated anti-drug efforts throughout Broward County.
Are you a licensed provider?
The Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse is licensed by the State of Florida, Department of Children & Families in accordance with Chapter 397, Florida Statutes to provide substance abuse services for adult and children clients for the component: Prevention Level I. The license is renewable annually and is required of any organization providing drug prevention services.
Do you provide any direct services?
In the strict sense of the word, we do not provide direct services. However, we do coordinate, administer and/or manage a number of anti-drug program initiatives in Broward County, including the Drug Free Youth In Town (DFYIT) program in 24 middle and high schools; the Guiding Good Choices Parent enrichment program; the Byrne Federal Block Grant program; an underage drinking task force, and other committees and task forces targeting Methamphetamine and the illegal use and diversion of prescription drugs.
Can you refer me to a treatment facility?
While we are a Department of Children and Families licensed prevention provider, we are not licensed as an “Information and Referral” agency. The Broward County provider licensed under this category is “First Call For Help” which can be contacted by dialing 211. There also is information on this Web site concerning licensed treatment providers in Broward and elsewhere in the country, including a brief description of the agency, its services and contact numbers.
Are you a non-profit agency with 501(c)(3) status?
The Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse is a division of the United Way of Broward County and as such operates under its 501(c)(3) designation. This status is afforded organizations that are organized and operated exclusively for charitable purposes. Under this designation, the United Way of Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse is eligible to receive federal, state and local grant funding as well as charitable contributions, donations, bequests, legacies and other gifts. The Commission has its own By-Laws and Board of Governors, separate from the United Way's By-Laws and Board of Directors.
Are you a United Way Agency?
We are not a separate agency. The Commission on Substance Abuse is a department within the United Way of Broward County, on par with its other departments of management, finance, community investment, marketing, human resources and campaign. Commission expenses are a separate line item of the United Way of Broward County operating budget. Its entire staff, including those paid by outside grants, are employees of the United Way of Broward County.
Are you a part of Broward County government?
Although the name Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse sounds very official and “governmental”, we are not connected with Broward County government. We are part of the United Way of Broward County, a non-profit organization. We do, however, perform a “quasi” government function in the administration of the Byrne Federal Block Grant program. Broward County government contracts with the United Way of Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse to coordinate the Byrne program for Broward County.
How is the Commission on Substance Abuse funded?
The United Way of Broward County provides funding of the Commission's basic infrastructure and operating costs, including the salary of the Vice President/Executive Director of the Commission, and portions of other staff salaries as well as general office supplies, phones, rent, travel and other operating expense. Community initiatives of the Commission are funded through grants from the Florida Departments of Children and Families (DCF), Law Enforcement (FDLE), and Transportation (DOT); and on the Federal level, from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the U.S. Department of Justice. In addition, the Commission receives funds from the School Board of Broward County, the Substance Abuse & Health Care Division of Broward County Human Services, the Broward Chiefs of Police Association, the Hollywood Police Department and other local law enforcement entities.
Can I apply to you for funding of my program?
Generally speaking, we do not have money to fund programs or to provide financial assistance to local agencies. We do, however, administer the Byrne Federal Block Grant program in Broward County and from time to time collaborate with other organizations to help them write grants and act as fiscal agent for their initiatives. For information on the Byrne Federal Block Grant funding, click here.
How can I become a member of the Commission on Substance Abuse and is there a fee to join?
Under the By-Laws of the Commission on Substance Abuse, members are selected by the Commission's Board of Governors. Prospective members are recommended to the Board by a Nominating Committee and if selected, serve for a period of 3-years. Members may be elected to serve successive terms. If you wish to apply for membership, send a letter requesting consideration to The United Way of Broward County Commission on Substance Abuse, 1300 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. Be sure to include a resume or biographical information. There is no fee involved.
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