Learning Objectives: 1) utilize the tools presented during the workshop to develop a youth tobacco prevention program focused on youth development and empowerment 2) Identify the positive outcomes the youth empowerment model has on youth, and ways in which youth are able to utilize the skills learned through youth development and empowerment to positively impact their peers, their community and state 3) recognize that youth development and empowerment is a key element in getting youth interested in activities geared towards reducing and preventing tobacco use.
Abstract: Audience – Individuals working with youth in tobacco prevention and reduction programs; managers developing youth prevention programs; and anyone wishing to integrate youth empowerment into their tobacco prevention efforts.
Key Points – In Vermont, the youth development and empowerment model is a critical part of youth tobacco prevention programs. The middle school program Vermont Kids Against Tobacco (VKAT), is now in its eighth year and a high school aged youth movement against tobacco, Our Voices Xposed (OVX), is in its third year. Attendees will receive detailed plans outlining the implementation process of youth empowerment into their programs. The presenters will also share information that they have gained through years of coordinating and working with the youth in these programs. The information presented will include a definition of youth development and empowerment, how this philosophy relates to youth tobacco prevention and reduction, detailed program overviews of VKAT and OVX, and skills youth learn from their participation in these groups.
Educational Experience - The audience will learn the key points through an interactive presentation, small group activities, and discussion. This will be followed by a question and answer period. Participants will receive program manuals, handouts, and resource lists.
Benefits – Attendees will be able to use the resources to develop/incorporate youth empowerment into their tobacco prevention program. They will see the positive effects that youth empowerment has on youth. Attendees will receive program manuals, handouts, and research data that helps to link the VKAT and OVX groups to the decline of youth smoking rates in Vermont.
Back to Role Youth Empowerment Has in Vermont’s Comprehensive Tobacco Control Plan
Back to Tobacco Use Prevention Among Youth
Back to The 2002 National Conference on Tobacco or Health