www.generationfree.com
FREE is a program designed for seventh and eighth graders. It is one of four age-appropriate tobacco prevention programs developed and implemented by The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi. The FREE program provides tobacco prevention activities that focus on life resiliency skills and empower members to make healthy lifestyle choices.
Adult sponsors meet with FREE Teams on a monthly basis. Using the activities in the FREE manual, they convey the importance of making positive decisions, such as the decision to be tobacco, alcohol and drug free. Other topics covered during the monthly meetings include communication skills, self-esteem, conflict resolution, goal setting, advocacy and decision-making skills.
For more information about FREE, visit www.generationfree.com.
www.generationfree.com
In order to reach one of the most at-risk groups for tobacco use — high school students — The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi has devised a novel program for Mississippi teens.
Frontline is a youth advocacy program designed to fight Big Tobacco and the establishment that live by the double standard of "do as I say, not as I do." Frontline allows youth to channel their anger and rebellion into causes that lead to healthier lifestyles and promote good for others. They live by the mantra "We draw the line" — drawing the line on tobacco company manipulation, as well as local, state and federal policies that restrict their rights to clean air and good health.
As part of the statewide FREE movement, Frontline strives to include teens from every part of the state. Thousands of youth belong to local Frontline teams; some have specialized training in advocacy and advocacy movements.
Because any program aimed at changing youth behavior should always involve youth in the planning, an advisory board comprised solely of teens provides input to the Frontline staff. Their advice helps shape the annual Frontline agenda and define program activities. Board members receive college scholarships.
For more information about Frontline, visit www.generationfree.com.
