Polk County SWAT Chapter Activities - Summer 2026

Community Chapter Club Meeting

July 11, 2026, the Polk County Community ChapterSWAT Club Students held an “Ice Cream Social” meeting at the Library in Haines City. Eleven students participated by creating signs featuring their favorite ice cream flavors. During the activity, students discussed how the use of flavors, colors, and appealing imagery in ice cream advertising can be compared to tactics used by the tobacco industry to attract consumers to its products. Students will take photographs of their signs back to their schools to share what they learned with their peers. As part of the meeting, students also signed pledge cards committing to remain tobacco-free.

“Coffee with the Commissioner” Haines City

Commissioner West also invited Polk SWAT to attend a “Coffee with the Commissioner” meeting at a local coffee shop in Haines City. Students had the opportunity to speak with the City Manager, meet the new Haines City Principal, Mr. Hutchinson, and interact with other community members. This experience provided students with an opportunity to engage with community leaders, build relationships, and learn more about their community.

Polk County Sheriff's Back to School Bash Event

A member of the Tobacco Free Polk Partnership invited SWAT members to volunteer at the Back-to-School Bash held at the Polk County Sheriff's Station in Winter Haven on July 25, 2026. The Chapter President and three chapter members volunteered at the event. They assisted with distributing backpacks and school supplies, answered community questions, and helped support the ice cream truck. Due to the extremely hot weather, they also assisted other volunteers by providing essential items and supplies. Their participation allowed them to give back to the community while supporting local families as they prepared for the new school year.

SWAT Recruitment Event

August 1st, 2026 Polk SWAT participated in a SWAT Recruitment Activity at Ridge Point Church in Winter Haven. During the event, two SWAT members educated attendees about the toxic chemicals and substances found in vaping products. Many attendees expressed surprise after learning about some of the chemicals present in vapes. The activity provided SWAT members with an opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of joining SWAT.