Community-based programs regularly participate in training provided by the Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Resource Center at The University of Montana. Community-based programs implement a variety of interventions to reduce tobacco use in their areas. Using a competitive bidding process, community-based program contracts were awarded to 28 entities serving 40 Montana counties. These community contractors have created programs that are bringing together hundreds of partners across Montana. The programs have hired local tobacco use prevention specialists who are actively working with their communities.
Some programs serve a single county while others reach a multi-county area.
Community coalitions are a mainstay of local efforts bringing partners together, broadening project support, and increasing the program s credibility through joint action and combined resources. The programs are working hard to achieve their goals, all of which support tobacco-free lifestyles and the creation of conditions where NOT using tobacco is the norm. To assess the effectiveness of Montana s tobacco use prevention program, community programs are required to participate in evaluation efforts. All programs have developed work plans outlining their objectives and submit quarterly reports on their progress. Each program has evaluated the status and environment of tobacco use in their community through a common assessment tool and has created a county tobacco use profile.