West Chester Communities that Care

The Communities That Care (CTC) model, based on research from the University of Washington, helps communities promote healthy youth development and reduce problem behaviors. Using prevention science, CTC guides communities in identifying local needs, setting priorities, and implementing effective strategies.

Every CTC nationwide gathers data from teens in schools about substance use, violence, and mental health. The PA Youth Survey (PAYS) is used by all CTCs in Pennsylvania. In West Chester, thanks to the long-standing partnership between WCCTC and WCASD, there’s over 20 years of local data available to inform decisions and priorities.