The Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission Inc. will get a Pennsylvania Community Prevention Collaborative grant of $432,900 from the Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Programs.

The primary goal is prevent ingalcohol, tobacco and drug use among children ages 12 to 17.

Kelly Burke, a prevention program specialist for Behavioral Health for 10 years, has been named program coordinator

"I'm really excited for the opportunity," said Mrs. Burke. "... The thrust of this grant is enhancing prevention partnerships ... So, I'm excited that this allows us to be real creative with our strategies in prevention."

The ERASE anti-drug coalition is the foundation of the local proposal. And the initiative is expected to strengthen the delivery of the Creating Lasting Family Connections program in Farrell, while expanding the program to Sharon.

To initiate the process, a Pride and Improvement Partnership has been formed that includes: