City of Fargo, ND

09/25/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/25/2024 12:44

Fargo Cass Public Health to Host Sixth Annual ‘Break Free Youth Action Summit’


Fargo Cass Public Health to Host Sixth Annual 'Break Free Youth Action Summit'

Teens and advisors invited to attend tobacco prevention and advocacy event on October 9, 2024

09/25/20241:30 p.m.

Fargo Cass Public Health (FCPH) will host the sixth annual 'Break Free Youth Action Summit' (YAS) on Wednesday, October 9, 2024. The event is organized and supported by a partnership between FCPH and Tobacco Free North Dakota and is offered at no cost to participants.

The YAS provides a unique opportunity for middle and high school students to demonstrate their passion and commitment in helping create the next tobacco free generation. The summit will give students tools and resources to find their voice and advocate for change. This year's featured speaker is Nikkya Taliaferro, National Youth Ambassador for Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids (CTFK). Taliaferro will share her knowledge and experience in tobacco prevention while expounding on CTFK strategies that assist in the fight to decrease youth tobacco use. Attendees will learn about the foundational principles of youth advocacy and latest strategies.

Doreen Odera, FCPH Community Health Educator, says, "We are excited to host another Youth Action Summit in Fargo. Young people will learn to use their voice to advocate for positive change in our community and throughout the state. Tobacco prevention is vital, and attending the summit gives students the tools they need to take action, not just for their own life but for a healthier world."

Youth are at the center of the nation's current vaping epidemic. Although we have seen a significant decrease in youth smoking rates over the last few years, vaping, or use of electronic cigarettes, among high school students remains high. According to the 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey data, current vaping among North Dakota high school students is 18%, which is higher than ND adult e-cigarette use rates at 9%."

In the weeks and months following the summit, students will work with their peers to create activities for events such as the Great American Smokeout and the Great American Spit Out.

Quick facts:
• Registration for the YAS is open and available here: https://ndhealth.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_broucDtdwxNUM86
• The summit will take place at the Avalon Event Center in Fargo, 2525 9th Avenue South, Fargo
• More information is available here: https://www.breathend.com/youth-action-summit/