Savanna Friend – TASK Central Regional Consultant
srfriend@tobaccofreekansas.org

Savanna serves as the Central Regional Consultant for the Tobacco Free Kansas Coalition, promoting the Smokeless Does Not Mean Harmless initiative. Savanna currently attends Kansas State University pursuing a degree in Pre-Physical Therapy and Human Nutrition.

While attending Jefferson West High School, Savanna was greatly involved in the fight against big tobacco. Along with attending several STAR rallies and other trainings, she enjoyed serving as member of Teens as Teachers, YADA (Youth Against Drugs and Alcohol) and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions). Through these groups she was able to educate and promote tobacco-free lives to her peers and the community. During her junior year, Savanna, along with other members of YADA and IMPACT (Informing My Peers About Countering Tobacco) created a Tobacco Free Grounds Policy to the USD 340 School Board, which was later approved and enforced.

TASK youth involvement video

Pictures

This picture is from the TRUCE Teens Resisting Unhealthy Choice Everyday, Bennington, Ottawa County Mystery Dinner. Students worked with their parents at the event and discussed the effects of smokeless tobacco. The “mystery” food was named after tobacco (i.e. spaghetti was called – don’t string me along to tobacco use).  Members invited one youth non-member.  The Lion’s Club board was also invited. Students collaborated with local health department & Saline County Health Department.