Growing Connections, Creating Change in Sumter

When Sumter County Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) youth cleaned three parks in the City of Coleman, they collected more than litter. They gathered evidence to help make the case for tobacco-free public spaces. The tobacco litter they found will support conversations with city leaders about how tobacco-free parks can create healthier environments for the community.

The cleanup is one example of how youth and community partners are turning participation into action in Sumter County. With support from CivCom staff, the Tobacco Free Sumter Partnership and Sumter County SWAT Chapter are working with three municipalities toward tobacco-free parks and public spaces. Staff have connected with the cities of Coleman and Center Hill to arrange opportunities for youth and community partners to present tobacco-free proposals to their mayors and city councils.

That work is supported by a growing network of community advocates. The Partnership now has 33 active members, including three board members, with participation from organizations representing health care, education, youth services, and other community resources. Partnership leaders came together in August to develop goals and objectives for the 2026–2027 fiscal year.

Youth involvement is growing, too. Three SWAT clubs began with 22 members, and recent community events introduced more young people and families to opportunities to get involved.

At the Langley Health Services Back 2 School Bash, staff distributed approximately 250 SWAT registration forms and recruitment brochures. Thirty-one youth and parents signed up to learn more about local clubs. At Summer Nights Done Right Splash Night, tobacco prevention education was paired with games, creative activities, and opportunities to connect. Of the event’s 49 youth attendees, 27 expressed interest in joining SWAT for the new school year. CivCom staff and Sumter Youth Center SWAT Advisor Rachel Caruso will follow up with interested families to help connect them with membership opportunities.

Alongside recruitment and policy work, CivCom staff continue to support access to cessation services through relationships with AHEC and Langley Health Services. Staff also worked with the Sumter County School District to initiate a pilot cessation program for students. Partnership member and Mental Health Coordinator Jacqueline Roe is leading the effort, with two courses made available to students.

From recruiting new members to cleaning parks and supporting students, Sumter’s tobacco prevention efforts are giving residents more ways to take part—and helping youth become advocates for healthier communities.