Hutchinson was one of 24 cities chosen by the University of Washington in 2003 to participate in a youth development study. 

Out of that highly successful experience, the Communities that Care System was embraced and a Communities that Care coalition was formed in Hutchinson. Our board is very inclusive with members representing youth, parents, business, education, law enforcement, media, government, health care, social services, youth services, civic groups, and faith-based organizations.

Every two years students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 take the Communities that Care Youth Survey. The results identify high risk factors and low protective factors, and guide our board in determining the best research-based interventions to address these issues. This process is continuous.