to actively partner with parents, residents, community groups, service agencies, businesses and others who want to strengthen Brockton's families, neighborhoods and community. The goal of the Community Connections Coalition initiative in Massachusetts is to increase neighborhood-based networks of support. In so doing we are strengthening families, building communities, and preventing child abuse and neglect. Community Connections Coalitions strive to achieve success by: Coordinating resources already in communities Giving residents a voice in community planning and organizing Ensuring that services meet the needs of families in the community