This report, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, outlines the benefits of using a coalition building approach to foster long-term, cross-sector engagement in communities. It highlights data and experiences from six communities who used a coalition building approach to improve youth well-being, inclusivity, and participation, particularly among racially and ethnically diverse groups. The guide emphasizes the importance of quality operations, early engagement, and data-driven decisions, drawing on real-life examples and provides guidance for other communities to consider context, history, and power dynamics while providing strategies for sustainable, positive change.

Sarah M. Chilenski, Penn State University
Mary Lisa Penilla, Penn State University
Jochebed G. Gayles, Penn State University
Daphne Lew, Washington University in St. Louis
Megan Galinsky, Penn State University
Sylvia Lin, Michigan State University
Aaron Luneke, Penn State University
Francisco Villarruel, Michigan State University