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