Building Momentum for a Tobacco-Free Seminole

Tobacco Free Seminole Partnership continues to make meaningful progress toward creating healthier, tobacco-free environments throughout Seminole County. Recent accomplishments include the successful reporting of Seminole County’s tobacco-free public spaces ordinance for county parks, a successful community park cleanup, and increased support for strengthening the district’s K-12 tobacco policy.

The tobacco-free public spaces ordinance represents an important step toward protecting residents, families, and youth from exposure to tobacco smoke and vapor while promoting clean and healthy recreational spaces. In addition to policy progress, the Tobacco Free Seminole Partnership successfully participated in a park cleanup that allowed partners to take direct action within the community. The cleanup supported the Partnership’s goal of promoting cleaner public spaces while also providing an opportunity to bring awareness to the environmental impact of tobacco-related litter. Activities such as park cleanups help connect tobacco prevention efforts with the overall health, appearance, and enjoyment of community spaces.

The Partnership also expanded its advocacy efforts through a meeting with the Seminole County Council PTA Advocacy representative. During the meeting, provider staff educated the representative on the benefits of adopting a fully comprehensive tobacco-free K-12 policy. The Statewide Policy Coordinator also participated in the discussion and provided additional education regarding the five provisions currently missing from Seminole County’s K-12 tobacco policy.

Following this discussion, the PTA Advocacy representative joined the Tobacco Free Seminole Partnership and expressed her willingness to assist with future advocacy efforts. She is prepared to advocate on behalf of Tobacco Free Seminole by helping educate and engage key stakeholders about opportunities to strengthen the district’s tobacco policy.

Having PTA Advocacy involved provides the Partnership with an important connection to the school community and individuals who can help move these conversations forward. Through continued collaboration, education, community engagement, and advocacy, Tobacco Free Seminole will continue working to strengthen tobacco policies throughout Seminole County.

From successful policy efforts to hands-on community activities, these accomplishments demonstrate how the Tobacco Free Seminole Partnership is building momentum and creating opportunities for healthier schools, parks, and public spaces throughout the county.