The 13th World Conference on Tobacco OR Health

Objective: The Tobacco Free Communities grant project engages youth in local tobacco control efforts through a developmental approach of preparing and promoting youth at various skill levels.

Methods: Youth are engaged to contribute to the success of the following tobacco control deliverables: 1. Increase the number and enforcement of tobacco free school grounds. 2. Increase the number of tobacco free outdoor public places (parks, etc). 3. Increase the awareness of the dangers of secondhand smoke and the need for comprehensive smoke-free workplace policies.

Results: Youth have developed a sense of belonging and ownership to local tobacco control efforts as well as gained skills in communication, planning, and decision making. This developmental approach has allowed youth to make a significant contribution to the desired outcomes as outlined in our grant requirements. One example is the adoption of a comprehensive tobacco free park policy in one community.