SWAT - Students Working Against Tobacco

What's In It For Me?

The key to many of SWAT’s accomplishments has been and continues to be the work of the SWAT clubs. SWAT works to integrate the talents of adults and youth in order to combat the manipulation of youth by the tobacco industry. In order to accomplish this task, SWAT initiates and participates in many activities that develop and reinforce anti-tobacco attitudes in community members.

SWAT hosts mini-summits and leadership workshops to empower youth and further the TRUTH message.

As SWAT evolved statewide, the local Chapters began taking their own steps in terms of community activities and initiatives. In Santa Rosa County, youth became concerned that Big Tobacco was selling candy-flavored tobacco products. They developed a plan, gave it a brand “Sweet Deception”, and took their issue to the streets of their county.

Similar activities have been done across the state, including youth rallies and events on Kick Butts Day and for the Great American Smoke Out.

- Getting the message out
is important.
- SWAT youth understand the importance media plays in delivering that message.
- SWAT groups around the state participate in local media training where they learn skills essential for working with the media.
- At local events, SWAT youth are the ones interviewed by reporters, write the press release, and generate and review the marketing plans.
- SWAT helps youth develop speaking skills and creates opportunities to grow as community advocates.

SWAT youth lead the community against Big Tobacco by educating decision makers on policy changes and county ordinances. Former SWAT members sit on the Tobacco Advisory Council, are running for county offices, and have even started their own consulting companies in an effort to continue their fight against tobacco.

“One good reason to join SWAT…name another club that’s saving 5.4 million lives.”
Kahreem Golden, Putnam County CA