News and Events

Sharlene Pyatt Continues to Make a Difference for the Youth of Highlands County
September 24, 2024

For nearly 17 years, Sharlene Pyatt has made a significant impact as a Prevention Counselor for Tri-County Human Services (TCHS) and for many of those years as a dedicated Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) advisor. Working with at-risk youth in the Highlands County School District, Sharlene has devoted her career to educating and empowering young people to stand up to Big Tobacco, equipping them with the knowledge to resist tobacco and vape usage, and serving as a positive role model during their most vulnerable years.

As a SWAT advisor, Sharlene has left a lasting impression on students across the district. At one point, she served as an advisor in all seven secondary schools in Highlands County, bringing her passion for tobacco prevention to every corner of the community. Her work goes beyond the classroom, as she is deeply committed to educating youth on the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping. Her leadership has helped countless students make informed decisions about their health while teaching them to advocate for tobacco-free environments.

Some of Sharlene's most notable contributions as a SWAT advisor include attending statewide SWAT trainings with youth, where she helped inspire the next generation of leaders in tobacco prevention. She has also taken the lead in running anti-tobacco lunchroom campaigns, creating engaging and educational events for students. Her dedication extends to the community, where she has spearheaded park clean-ups and played an integral role in organizing SWAT summer programs.

Her leadership and unwavering dedication to promoting healthier lifestyles make her an invaluable member of the Tobacco Free Partnership of Highlands County. With her guidance, today’s youth are not only learning to resist tobacco use but are also being empowered to take action in their communities, ensuring a healthier future for everyone.

Sharlene Pyatt’s work as a SWAT advisor and Prevention Counselor continues to be a source of inspiration, and we are thrilled to have her leading the charge in the fight against tobacco. Her positive influence and dedication to the youth of Highlands County are shaping a generation ready to stand up against Big Tobacco.