Since its beginning in 1987, The Capital District Regional Consortium On Alcohol and Other Drugs has evolved into a vital network and resource for more than twenty area colleges and service providers.

The Consortium meets its goal of providing education, support and technical assistance to campus communities on alcohol and other drug issues through monthly meetings and sponsored educational forums and events. Through rotation of hosting sites, monthly meetings actively involve all members. Each meeting affords invaluable networking and business meeting followed by an hour of professional development. Among the topics of this past year: smoking cessation, eating disorders, gang influences, and the impact of alcohol and other drugs on sexual assault and domestic violence to name a few.

The Consortium offers far more than information and networking; it provides professional development, rich resources, and new skills, which translate directly into better and more effectively serving our students. The Consortium works closely with the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services in gathering the latest research and information available for programming.

While learning from each other and from community resources is important to the Consortium, we more importantly, learn from our students. The annual College Challenge, a game show in which teams of students compete on issues related to alcohol, other drugs and safer sex, and the encouragement of student participation and presentation at meetings, are a critical learning tool for all members.

The Capital District Regional College Consortium on Alcohol and Other Drugs is a vital and enthusiastic group of individuals committed to providing each other strong and comprehensive tools for alcohol and other drug education and early intervention programs. If you would like to know more about the Consortium, please call either co-chair, Terri Kersch at RPI (518.276.2305) or Cheryl Collins at SPARC (518.452.6735).

Our 2004-2005 Schedule of meetings are: