Cass County earns another five years of federal prevention funding
Last Updated on July 27, 2026 by Cass County Communication Network
LOGANSPORT, Ind. – Stand UP Cass County has secured another five years of federal funding through the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program, ensuring local prevention efforts continue to strengthen families, empower youth, and reduce substance misuse across Cass County.
The award, administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) through the Drug-Free Communities Support Program, provides $125,000 annually beginning July 1, 2026. Pending annual continuation funding and satisfactory performance, the award represents up to $625,000 over the next five years to support prevention efforts in Cass County.
Stand UP Cass County, coordinated by Youth Services Alliance as the coalition’s fiscal agent, earned this competitive continuation award after successfully completing its first five years of federal funding. The renewal recognizes the coalition’s proven ability to bring together schools, healthcare providers, law enforcement, local government, businesses, faith organizations, parents, youth, and community partners to address youth substance use through evidence-based prevention strategies
“This funding represents an investment in the future of Stand UP,” said Nikki Malott, Project Director for Stand UP Cass County. “It reflects the hard work of countless community partners and volunteers who believe that preventing substance misuse before it starts is one of the best investments we can make in our young people. Together, we are creating healthier environments, stronger families, and more opportunities for youth to thrive.”
Over the next five years, Stand UP Cass County will continue to:
- Prevent youth alcohol, tobacco, vaping, and marijuana use.
- Expand youth leadership and engagement opportunities. More specifically with our
Youth Advisory Board (in collaboration with MHA-Wabash Valley Region) - Support parents and caregivers with education and resources.
- Strengthen collaboration among schools, healthcare providers, law enforcement, local
government, businesses, and community organizations. - Provide positive, substance-free activities for youth and families!
- Use local data to guide prevention efforts and measure community impact
The Drug-Free Communities Program is the nation’s premier community-based prevention
initiative, supporting local coalitions that use proven strategies to reduce youth substance
use while strengthening protective factors within their communities.
“Receiving another five years of funding is not automatic,” Malott said. “It is earned through demonstrated success, accountability, and a community-wide commitment to prevention. This award belongs to everyone in Cass County, every partner, volunteer, parent, student, donor, and organization that has helped make Stand UP Cass County successful. We could not have made it this long without the continued support from our community! We appreciate all of the people, organizations, and businesses who have stuck with us through the last several months when grant-funding was so unknown, your support and
commitment kept Stand UP Cass County alive and thriving, and we appreciate it and you.”
Community members, businesses, and organizations interested in joining the coalition or supporting prevention initiatives are encouraged to become involved!
“We cannot do it alone. We also want to extend our support to you; how can we support you in what you do in the community?”
SOURCE: News release from Stand Up Cass County