When it comes to recruiting the newest generation of smokers, the real battle ground is our local communities. Confronting tobacco use at the local level helps all of us build better, healthier communities.
Coalitions are powerful and effective organizing tools.
They bring partners together, broadening support for projects and increasing credibility. They involve volunteers and increase the efforts of participating groups through joint action and combined resources. Coalitions of community members are especially important when involved in efforts to change community norms. A significant investment in community-based programs will provide opportunities for Oklahomans from Boise City to Idabel to directly benefit from tobacco use prevention and cessation programs funded right in their hometowns. Through local contracts and technical assistance and support from state and local health departments, communities throughout Oklahoma will receive funding for staff, training, materials, and supplies to support their community-based programs.