Regional Advocates Countering Tobacco (REACT)

Who We Are

Created through funding from the California Department of Public Health – Tobacco Control Program, ReACT implements a tri-county tobacco control plan aimed at reducing and preventing tobacco use and decreasing exposure to secondhand smoke in the counties of Tulare, Kings, and Fresno.

Our Objectives

(1) Increasing youth and young adult participation in tobacco control efforts through authentic engagement in advocacy activities in the tri-county region

2) Assisting communities in the tricounty region through the adoption and implementation of public policies that:

  • a) restrict the sale and distribution of tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, 1000 ft from schools and other youth sensitive areas,
  • b) eliminate the sale of all flavored and mentholated tobacco products or
  • c) eliminate the use of all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, in outdoor recreational areas, such as parks, skate parks, or trails
Funded by the California Department of Public Health,
California Tobacco Control Program, Contract No. 15-10228

Coalition

REACT-I HRT U YOUTH COALITION

The REACT I HRT U youth coalition, which stands for Improving Health by Reducing Tobacco Use, was established through the REACT Program to ensure students have an opportunity to take the lead and create meaningful change in their communities in tobacco control efforts. I HRT U coalition members will be provided with fun, innovative training on public speaking, working with elected officials, tobacco prevention, policy/advocacy work, leadership skills, data collection, and social norm change. Using these skills, I HRT U members will be assisted in planning and organizing their own tobacco control efforts in their respective communities on the issues of tobacco-free outdoor recreation areas and/or zoning and density of tobacco retailers.

QUALIFICATIONS | All youth members must be:

  • 13-18 years old
  • Be able to attend meetings as needed
  • Attend high school and have regular attendance
  • Able to work as a team

INCENTIVES TO PARTICIPATE

By participating, youth will receive:

  • Leadership training
  • Incentives during meetings including REACT promotional gear and snacks
  • Opportunity to attend the Youth Leadership Summit at the end of the year
  • Letters of recommendation for university applications or employment
  • End-of-the-Year activities or incentives
  • Mentoring and Coaching by REACT staff

Responsibilities

Coalition Member’s responsibilities include:

  • Attend weekly meetings and events
  • Participate in trainings
  • Attend 75% of meetings
  • At least once a year present with staff or peers to local community organizations, city council members, city staff, or state legislators
  • Attend and volunteer at 1 community event/project

    Student Information











    Parent Information









    Media Release

    Consent

    I hereby consent to the participation in interviews, the use of quotes, and the taking of photographs, audio or video of the student named above by the California Health Collaborative, Regional Advocates Countering Tobacco Program. I also grant to the right to edit, use, and reuse said products for non-profit purposes including use in print, on the internet, and all other forms of media. I also hereby release the California Health Collaborative, the REACT Program, and its agents and employees from all claims, demands, and liabilities whatsoever in connection with the above.

    I agree

    Transportation and Liability Release

    Consent

    On special occasions, REACT staff will need to transport youth home back home from REACT Program activities.

    I (parent or legal guardians) give permission to my child to participate in I HRT U Youth Coalition. I agree I will not hold the California Health Collaborative, Regional Advocates Countering Tobacco Program, California Department of Public Health, and/or my son/daughter’s High School, their employees, or agents responsible for any injury or sickness my child may incur during this program.

    I also confirm my decision listed above to allow my child to be transported by REACT staff during the school year. I agree I will not hold the California Health Collaborative, Regional Advocates Countering Tobacco Program, California Department of Public Health, and/or my son/daughter’s High School, their employees, or agents responsible if I decide to allow them to transport my child for program activities or events.

    I agree