Students Working
Against Tobacco
SWAT is a statewide youth movement — and Suwannee County has two active chapters making waves right here at home.
Youth-led. Community-driven.
Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) is Florida's youth tobacco prevention movement. SWAT chapters are organized groups of middle and high school students who are trained to understand — and fight back against — how the tobacco industry targets young people.
SWAT isn't just about saying no to tobacco. It's about understanding the bigger picture: the marketing tactics, the predatory targeting of communities, the social pressures. SWAT members become advocates — in their schools, their families, and their communities.
SWAT is student-led. Adult advisors support the chapters, but SWAT members set the agenda, lead the meetings, and drive the work. That's what makes it real.
In Suwannee County, SWAT chapters are supported by Tobacco Free Suwannee and coordinated by Trip Schneitman, SWAT Coordinator.
SWAT is coordinated statewide by the Bureau of Tobacco Free Florida and connects youth advocates from every county in the state — including an annual Statewide SWAT Meeting.
Our SWAT Chapters
Two active chapters, 36+ members, and growing. Here's where SWAT is making waves in Suwannee County.
What SWAT members do
SWAT isn't a club that just meets and talks. Members take real action in their schools and communities.
Counter-Marketing
Expose and counter tobacco industry advertising that targets young people — on social media, in stores, and in their schools.
Policy Advocacy
Meet with school administrators and local officials to advance tobacco-free policies — SWAT youth voices carry real weight in these conversations.
Community Events
Participate in school and community events — from litter clean-ups to health fairs — that raise awareness and build momentum for a tobacco-free culture.
Leadership Training
Receive training on tobacco prevention science, advocacy skills, and public speaking — skills that go far beyond tobacco prevention.
Join SWAT in Suwannee County
Are you a middle or high school student in Suwannee County? SWAT is open to any student who wants to make a difference. No experience needed — just a willingness to learn and take action.
Fill out the interest form and our SWAT Coordinator, Trip Schneitman, will reach out with next steps.
Not a student? Adults can support SWAT as advisors, partners, or community champions. Contact us to learn how.
SWAT Interest Form
Takes less than 2 minutes. We'll follow up with chapter info for your school.
Join SWAT — Suwannee CountyOpens a secure form in a new window.