How does SWAT build skills that help youth become empowered?
Education on the tobacco industry marketing tactics is key. With the help of the SWAT website and core training materials, SWAT members gain an understanding of the issue at hand, and then they conduct activities to raise awareness of the problem. There are often statewide activities that they can link with other teams to do including opportuntites for youth to train youth from other teams. Sometimes the youth will even partner with an adult to facilitate a training.
Top of General Questions
Can you explain a little more about the meetings and activities?
Sure. To be most effective, SWAT teams should meet at least twice per month. They should also be doing activities in addition to the meetings. Suggested activities can be found in the SWAT Allies Activity Guide (can be downloaded from this website). Other activities might surround annual tobacco days of recognition such as Through with Chew Week, Great American Spit Out, Kick Butts Day, World No Tobacco Day, Great American Smokeout. Remember to send in a BRAG Sheet when you are done!
Top of General Questions
How do I form a team? Where do I find youth?
From youth service agencies such as Boys & Girls Club or YMCA, tribes, community centers, schools, churches, youth sports outlets, just to name a few.
Top of General Questions
How do I recruit and retain my team?
SWAT is open to youth in grades 6-12. Youth may join through the website, recruitment brochure, or a local team. They should be able to commit to 50% of the meetings and activities.
Top of General Questions