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FIRE Squad of South Carolina Honored as 2026 Group Youth Advocates of the Year

On May 5, 2026, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids proudly announced the Fearless Individuals Reaching Excellence Youth Coalition, known as the FIRE Squad, from South Carolina as the 2026 Group Youth Advocates of the Year. This honor is a testament to their tireless efforts to combat the challenges posed by tobacco use in their community.

The FIRE Squad is composed of passionate youth advocates dedicated to reducing the devastating effects of tobacco use in Orangeburg, Bamberg, and Calhoun Counties in South Carolina. Members of the group, including standout representatives Jeremiah Morgan, Synaya Thompson, and PJ Hubbard, have witnessed firsthand the detrimental impacts of tobacco and nicotine dependency on their peers, families, and schools. Their personal experiences have fueled a deep commitment to effecting meaningful change in their communities.

A significant concern for the FIRE Squad has been the alarming rise of e-cigarette usage in schools. They have noted an increase in the availability of tobacco and vape shops in their area, which has only contributed to the problem. In response, these youth advocates have taken proactive measures to raise awareness about these issues. They engaged with their local communities, educating peers and families about the dangers associated with tobacco products.

One remarkable achievement of the FIRE Squad was their initiative to present findings from a community survey to the Orangeburg City Council. The survey provided critical data indicating that easy access to tobacco products was a prominent risk factor influencing youth tobacco use in the area. Armed with this information, they urged local policymakers to act. Their efforts paid off when the City Council passed a landmark ordinance restricting tobacco retailers from operating near schools, childcare centers, recreation facilities, and other areas frequented by youth. This victory exemplifies the impact that young advocates can have when they take a stand against tobacco.

Yolonda C. Richardson, President and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, expressed her excitement in recognizing the FIRE Squad, stating, “We are delighted to honor FIRE Squad as our Group Youth Advocates of the Year. These young people have demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment in working to reduce youth tobacco use in their South Carolina communities. Their efforts are helping to create a healthier future for all of us.” Their commendation will take place on May 7, 2026, during the 2026 Youth Advocates of the Year Awards in Washington D.C., where they will be celebrated alongside other youth advocates and public health leaders from across the nation and the globe.

The urgency of their mission is underscored by the grim statistics surrounding tobacco use in the United States. Tobacco continues to be the leading cause of preventable death, claiming over 490,000 lives annually and imposing a staggering $241 billion burden in healthcare costs. In South Carolina alone, tobacco consumption results in approximately 7,200 deaths each year and costs the state $2.2 billion in health care expenses linked to tobacco-related illnesses. Among high school students in South Carolina, recent figures indicate that about 3.3% smoke cigarettes while a concerning 16.7% use e-cigarettes, highlighting the critical need for continued advocacy and intervention.

Through their unwavering commitment and actions, the FIRE Squad exemplifies how youth can take decisive action against public health crises. Their story serves as an inspiring reminder that it is vital to empower young leaders who advocate for change, ensuring a healthier future for all generations. As they move forward, FIRE Squad continues to spearhead local initiatives, working diligently to foster awareness about the dangers of tobacco and to advocate for policies that will protect the health and well-being of youth in South Carolina and beyond.