News and Events
SWAT Youth Leading the Way in Highlands County
March 10, 2026
Across Highlands County, Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) youth are proving that young people can make a real difference in their schools and communities. Through service projects, community events, and peer-to-peer education, these student leaders continue to promote healthier, tobacco-free lifestyles while building strong leadership skills along the way.
In December, the Sebring Middle School SWAT Chapter hosted “Unwrap a Tobacco-Free Future,” a Christmas-themed event focused on engaging students in tobacco prevention. SWAT members led interactive activities like the “Unwrap the Facts” game, a snowball toss challenge, and a tobacco-free pledge tree. The event created a fun and welcoming environment while giving students the opportunity to learn about the risks of tobacco and vaping from their peers.
SWAT youth also shared positive messages throughout the community by participating in the Avon Park, Sebring, and Lake Placid Christmas parades during the holiday season. It was a great way for students to connect with their communities, spread some holiday cheer, and remind everyone that living tobacco-free is something worth celebrating.
Service is a big part of what SWAT stands for. In November, the Highlands County SWAT Chapter organized a food drive that collected non-perishable items from students, schools, and community members. The donations were delivered to Hands for Homeless, Inc., to help support local individuals and families who needed it most. Projects like this show that SWAT is about more than prevention—it’s about leadership, compassion, and giving back.
SWAT members also rolled up their sleeves to help protect our local environment. This past fall, youth and community volunteers gathered at Veterans Beach and removed more than 40 pounds of tobacco litter and trash. Efforts like this remind us that small actions can have a big impact when people come together for their community.
Behind these efforts are dedicated advisors who support and inspire our students every step of the way. One of those leaders is SWAT advisor Cleo Pyatt, who brings creativity, energy, and a passion for prevention to every meeting and activity. Her commitment helps empower students to make healthy choices and use their voices to advocate for positive change.
With SWAT clubs active in schools across Highlands County, our youth continue to show that leadership doesn’t have to wait until adulthood. When students are given the opportunity to lead, they step up—and our community is stronger because of it.
