RICHLAND CENTER, Wis. (Oct. 26, 2026) — The Richland Hospital and Clinics (TRHC) has assumed management of the federal Drug Free Communities (DFC) Grant that supports the work of Partners for Prevention Coalition of Richland County, continuing a communitywide effort to reduce youth substance use and promote healthier outcomes for local families. The transition became official Oct. 9.

The grant has supported prevention efforts in Richland County for the past seven years, bringing together educators, health care professionals, law enforcement, parents, businesses, faith leaders and community members to address youth substance use. The Richland School District has served as the grant’s fiscal agent since 2019.

As Partners for Prevention enters Year 8 of the 10-year grant, TRHC will oversee administration of the remaining funding.

The transition aligns with the hospital’s mission and community health priorities. Through its Community Health Needs Assessment process, TRHC has consistently identified substance use and mental health as key concerns across its service area.

“At The Richland Hospital and Clinics, improving community health means looking beyond traditional health care services,” said Sam Machovec, Drug-Free and Community Health Coordinator. “Substance use prevention, mental health and family wellness are closely connected. Bringing grant administration under the hospital helps align these efforts with other community health initiatives while ensuring these resources continue benefiting local residents.”

Partners for Prevention Coalition of Richland County was established through the leadership of Betsy Roesler, who secured the Drug Free Communities Grant and helped launch the coalition. Following her retirement, leadership transitioned to Machovec, who continues to coordinate prevention initiatives and community partnerships throughout Richland County.

Since its inception, the coalition has worked to increase awareness of the risks associated with youth alcohol, tobacco, vaping and drug use while supporting families through education, outreach and prevention strategies.

Looking ahead, coalition leaders are focused on sustainability and ensuring prevention efforts continue after federal funding ends. “The vision has always extended beyond the life of the grant,” Machovec said. “Our goal is to create lasting community norms that support healthy choices and make prevention a permanent part of how our community works together.”

While fiscal management of the grant is moving to TRHC, the Richland School District will remain an active coalition partner. “Partners for Prevention has always been a community effort,” said Steve Board, Superintendent for the Richland School District. “The Richland Hospital and Clinics is well-positioned to lead the next chapter because substance use prevention and mental health are important community health priorities. We look forward to continuing our partnership and supporting the coalition’s work.”

Partners for Prevention is seeking new coalition members and volunteers. Community members interested in supporting local prevention efforts are encouraged to get involved. “Prevention works because it is community-driven,” Machovec said. “Everything Partners for Prevention has accomplished over the last seven years has been possible because of the dedication of our coalition members, volunteers and community partners. As we enter this next phase, we welcome anyone who wants to help shape a healthier future for Richland County.”

For more information about Partners for Prevention or to learn how to become involved, contact The Richland Hospital and Clinics.