About Sun Prairie Wellness Coalition

Our Story

The Sun Prairie Wellness Coalition, formed in November 2021, is a community driven group of passionate residents and local partners coming together to improve wellness in our city. We know substance use is prevalent, stigma prevents mental health from being openly discussed, and that currently there is a gap in education and awareness as to what this means to our community. We have come together to engage the community to take action, provide training and education, and advocate for those impacted.

Values

Engage the Community to Understand Priority Issues & Needs
Acknowledge Social Determinants of Health
Recognize the Importance of being Trauma-Informed
Embed Health & Racial Equity Strategies throughout our Processes

Current Initiatives

The Sun Prairie Wellness Coalition works collaboratively to promote the health and well-being of our community. Our current initiatives focus on prevention, connection, and support across the lifespan.

Mental Wellness

We aim to create a community where mental health is valued, stigma is reduced, and everyone has access to support.

Our efforts include: 
Stigma reduction: Hosting community conversations, film screenings, and events that challenge mental health stigma.
Suicide Prevention & 988 Awareness: Partnering with local organizations to promote awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and coordinating annual events that foster hope, healing, and connection.

Youth Substance Use Prevention 

We collaborate with schools, parents, and community partners to prevent youth substance use through education, skill-building, and positive comunity norms.

Our goals include: 
Empowering youth to make healthy choices 
Supporting families and educators with prevention resources
Promoting safe, supportive environments for all young people

Harm Reduction 

We recognize that people are safest and healthiest when they have access to accurate information, resources, and compassion.

Our harm reduction efforts include: 
Increasing awareness about overdose prevention and response
Supporting access to naloxone and safe disposal options
Encouraging judgment-free community dialogue around substance use