YKHC’s Tobacco Prevention and Cessation (TPC) team would like to share our newest success in engaging local youth to effect positive change in our community. Our recent partnership with Teens Acting Against Violence (TAAV) impressed us due to the high level of ambition and selfless concern Bethel youth demonstrate for our community. In order to support that energy, provide additional experiences and leadership opportunities TPC formed a local chapter of YEAH (Youth Encouraging Alaskans’ Health)

YEAH is comprised of numerous groups across the state who meet regularly using teleconferences, emails and social media to develop their work around tobacco prevention and advocacy at the local and statewide levels.  Research has shown that engaging young people in tobacco control issues is a strategy in changing social norms and preventing the initiation of tobacco use. YEAH Teen Advocates work on a local level to support tobacco prevention and cessation. YEAH Teen Ambassadors are nominated and selected to participate in two trainings during the school year. Here they will learn how to educate the community on the impacts of tobacco, and support tobacco free areas. Both empower their peers to make a positive difference in their communities.

Bethel’s local chapter of YEAH has two Advocates and two Ambassadors that have already been featured on KYUK and are planning several outreach activities in order to help make Alaska tobacco-free! Our Ambassadors just returned from a weekend trip into Anchorage in order to plan a youth summer conference for the state in 2020.