It is critical to gain the involvement of committed organizations at the start of the initiative to ensure a strong, productive working relationship through the years ahead. A wide range of youth-influential adults will be represented at the launch, including coaches, teachers, religious and civic organization leaders, and mentors. Select individuals could speak about the opportunities for concerned citizens to become involved in youth drug prevention and how this involvement could improve safety and cohesiveness in a community. Each of Us Can Keep America's Kids Off Drugs.
Celebrities can also raise the level of awareness and excitement for the launch.
A Partnership Summit event should officially kick-off the partnership network and activities of the campaign. The summit should be a visible, national coming together of partners, keynoted, if possible, by General McCaffrey. Ideally the summit should take place close in time to the launch. National groups with strong ties to affiliates, chapters, and coalitions around the country should have leading roles in the event. This will ensure their continued involvement in and support for the campaign.