News and Events
Highlands SWAT Youth: Champions of Tobacco Prevention, Extending Holiday Greetings
December 14, 2023
Our Highlands SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) launched the 23-24 school year with remarkable enthusiasm. Over the past few months, these young individuals have been actively engaged in educating both their peers and the community about the risks linked to tobacco, vaping, and secondhand smoke.
Comprising youths aged 11-17 from all public middle and high schools in Highlands County, our SWAT Chapter has been a stalwart force advocating for tobacco prevention in our community for several years. Besides intensifying their involvement within their respective schools, our SWAT Youth are striving to enhance awareness and visibility in the community.
The Highlands County SWAT Youth have been actively participating in public speaking opportunities, including school board meetings and board of county commission meetings. They aim to educate these influential decision-makers about current youth tobacco usage rates and the ongoing challenge posed by youth vaping.
Alongside these efforts, our SWAT Youth have taken part in events such as Not a Lab Rat Day, Red Ribbon Week, and various fall festivals this quarter. Participating in the highly anticipated annual Christmas parades in Avon Park, Sebring, and Lake Placid, our SWAT Chapter engaged by distributing palm cards and candies.
We take immense pride in our youth and their proactive approach to advocate for their health and a tobacco-free future in Highlands County. Quarter two was a tremendous success, and we eagerly anticipate the prospects the New Year holds for our Youth.
If you wish to collaborate with our SWAT Youth or require further information, please reach out to Amanda John at ajohn@quitdoc.com.
