This document describes a study of the organization, operation, sustainability, and impact of community anti-drug coalitions nationwide. The study involved case studies of eight highly effective community coalitions and a cross-case analysis of characteristics shared among the coalitions. A consistent set of distinguishing features was examined across each coalition (outcomes, planning, sustained leadership, institutionalization, and diversification of funding resources). Although each coalition was constituted differently, they shared characteristics regarding: mission statement; understanding of community; strategic planning; purposeful decisions; organizational structure; diversified and relevant funding; leadership; volunteers; representative membership and staff; diverse partners; multiple strategies across multiple sectors; clear expectations; access to community leaders; current technology; communication; professional development opportunities; and evaluation. Successful coalitions worked with organized youth groups and had a broad base of partners. All eight directed recognition and appreciation toward their partners rather than themselves. Most worked under the aegis of a lead agency. Each could identify formal rules and regulations by which they operated. The coalitions emphasized how critical it was to primarily (or exclusively) seek funds relating to the coalition's mission, though money was not the ultimate indicator of success. An appendix lists contacts at the community coalitions that participated in the study. (SM)