Vikings Kicking Out Tobacco (VKOT) – Brazos County
The Vikings kicking out tobacco coalition is funded by a 125, 000 grant through Texas Health and Human Services. The grant was awarded to BVCASA in 2013 with the goal of reducing community tobacco rates among adults. In addition, the coalition focuses on the prevention of youth usage. VKOT is a student-led coalition whose focus is to increase knowledge and heighten awareness on the dangers of tobacco and underage alcohol use.
Through a strong collaboration with the leaders of Bryan ISD, City of Bryan and College Station as well as other community members, VKOT has taken a proactive approach to reducing overall problems associated with tobacco and underage alcohol use among students. The goal is to change community norms as it relates to tobacco and underage alcohol use ultimately leading to a healthier community. If you are interested in getting involved, contact the VKOT Coalition Coordinator at 979-846-3560 or email: info@bvcasa.org
Projects
- Park Clean ups and awareness events
- DATA Collection (student surveying, arrest reports, local & regional hospital reports, etc.)
- Policy change (ordinances)
- Community events (Tobacco Free Kids Day)
Accomplishments
- 2014 Highest performing youth group in Texas recognized by Texas School Safety Center
- 2015 Highest performing youth group in Texas recognized by Texas School Safety Center
- 2016 Highest performing youth group in Texas recognized by Texas School Safety Center
- 2017 Smoke Free Parks
- 2017 Highest performing youth group in Texas recognized by Texas School Safety Center
- 2019 National Youth Advocate Group of the Year recognized by The Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids
- 2019 Smoke Free Ordinance