Dan Mills

Despite laws and age regulations, there are still far too many teens dabbling in drug and alcohol use. While this is an issue all across the country, it has become very alarming in Lee County, Florida. According to a 2014 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey, 20% of Lee County teens used alcohol in the past 30 days – a figure that is way too high.

The Lee County Coalition for a Drug-Free Southwest Florida is working to lower such numbers. Dan Mills, a volunteer for the Coalition works closely with children to keep them on a positive path. Mills, who serves as the Vice Chair of the Coalition, has spent the last three years developing and implementing strategies to help teens make good decisions about alcohol and drug use.

The Lee County Coalition hosts a number of educational events throughout the year advocating for the prevention of drug and alcohol abuse. Mills' devotion and problem solving skills is essential in the operations of these events. From his work with the #refuse campaign, aiming to make prevention accessible to Lee County families, to his work with the Busy Bank Run for Prevention, a fundraiser for those in need, Mills' volunteer efforts is helping make a difference.

Though he balances a full-time job, helps raise a family, as well as volunteer with the Little League and coach a softball team, Mills still finds time to give back. His dedication toward youth alcohol and drug prevention is helping shape a better Lee County.