CPA is a nonprofit organization, established in 1976 by a small group of dedicated and progressive thinking prevention specialists. Today, CPA continues to serve as a strong prevention advocate and is dedicated to validating the important role that prevention plays in the lives of every Pennsylvanian.
Vision
The Commonwealth Prevention Alliance envisions a world that prioritizes primary prevention, ensuring every Pennsylvanian has access to the resources they need to promote positive behaviors and lead healthy, happy, and meaningful lives.
Mission
CPA works to reimagine prevention, advocate for equity and critical resources, and share best and promising practices.
CPA is committed to facilitating thoughtful, diverse, and innovative spaces through which communities, programs, and individuals redefine and implement prevention using public health frameworks. Working collaboratively, CPA strengthens the local capacity to promote healthy relationships, nurture emotional well-being, prevent substance misuse, and lessen interpersonal violence.
Core Values
In all of its endeavors, CPA has identified these values as core to our mission. Board members, staff, and volunteers are committed to working thoughtfully, always accountable to these essential principles:
- CPA believes in the inherent worth and value of every person and is committed to prioritizing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in all of its decision-making, programming, and activities. CPA understands that fully embracing DEIB requires careful consideration and deliberate decision-making, as well as a significant commitment of time and money.
- CPA believes in fostering a culture of respect that ensures every interaction embodies integrity, trust, and accountability; and that everyone is treated with dignity, compassion, humility, and grace.
- CPA believes, to prevent substance misuse, it is essential to understand and address the underlying causes of risk factors, promote healthy behaviors, and build resilience.
- CPA believes in working transparently, supporting prevention professionals, opening up decision-making processes, and holding ourselves accountable to our mission.
- CPA believes that achieving its mission requires embracing the idea that high-impact organizations must continuously adapt, change, and evolve to meet the needs of its stakeholders.
- CPA believes that large-scale change is possible through strategic advocacy that holds those with power accountable to the needs of individuals and communities.
- CPA believes in effective prevention interventions that meet people where they are; focus on reducing risk and enhancing protective factors; and are free of stigma, blame, and judgement.
- CPA believes that those in need of prevention services (youth, those who misuse substances, etc.) should have a seat at the table when plans are created, decisions are made, and resources are allocated.