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KICK Tobacco Coalition (KTC)

Keep Illegal Cigarettes from Kids (KICK)

Established in 1999, KICK is a partnership of more ten 20 community-based organizations, agencies, schools, and churches that seek to decrease youth tobacco access and to change attitudes toward smoking. KICK uses a widespread approach to educate Pulaski County citizens and to prevent or cease the use of tobacco.

KICK has collaborated with a number of partners to conduct community assessments. Research from recently past years found that a 64 % majority of Arkansas citizens were non smokers, and that 71% percent of them would support a law to eliminate smoking in restaurants. In 2006 we played an important role in implementing the Clean-Indoor Air Act.

The KTC has also hosted three big events: The Education Symposium, KICK Butts Day, and Great American Smoke Out, which is in Collaboration with (ACS). We are in the process of conducting more in depth research and revisiting the economic impact for 2008.

Everyday, more than 4,000 kids try their first cigarette; and more than 2,200 additional young people become daily smokers. In a study with youth, a participant stated, “Smoking has consequences for everyone.” The study also identified that early prevention is much more effective than late intervention. Suggestions to help prevent underage smoking are setting a good example and emphasizing health risks.

Get Involved! Call 399-3420!