Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC) began as a grass–roots movement in 1973, led by a group of parents and community leaders who were concerned about the growing problem of adolescent alcohol and drug abuse in the cities of Mountain View, Los Altos, and Los Altos Hills. The original partnership (Joint Powers Agreement) included the governments of these three cities and their respective school districts. The seven Joint Powers Agreement entities provided the initial funding for CHAC services. Since 1973, the demand for, and variety of CHAC’s services has grown greatly in scope and funding has considerably diversified. Today, the Joint Powers Agreement cities and school districts provide less than 13% of CHAC’s funding. The majority of program funds are raised through individual donations, corporations, local businesses, Santa Clara County contracts, churches, service clubs, and foundations.

CHAC’s programs address a variety of emotional problems that effect children, teens, and families. Issues include parenting and family problems, drug and alcohol use, physical and psychological abuse, teen pregnancy and truancy, depression, academic underachievement, anxiety, domestic violence, gang participation, economic stress, and other problems that lead to unhappiness or destructive behavior. Many of CHAC’s programs are designed to protect young people from high–risk behaviors such as alcohol or illicit drug abuse, violence, and premature sexual activity, while building personal assets such as school success, valuing diversity, maintaining good health, and the ability to delay gratification; all of which will help insure that they have the greatest chance for success in life.

CHAC is governed by a Board of Directors that represent each of the three school districts and three city governments that comprise the Joint Powers Agreement, as well as other community leaders. The Board meets monthly, and determines policy and direction for the agency. The Board has an exceptionally close working relationship with the Executive Director and staff.