The Advocates for Tobacco and Vape Free Communities (ATVFC), led by Latino Connection, aims to address the critical issue of tobacco and nicotine use prevention within minoritized communities across Pennsylvania. By bringing together professionals across sectors, we can leverage our collective expertise and resources to make a significant impact.
With Latino Connection’s extensive network of educated, experienced, and respected leaders supporting ATVFC, our Advocates serve the need to regularly assess and identify the emerging needs of black and brown communities as they relate to tobacco in education, healthcare, mental and behavioral health, and social/human services.
The Advocates and their members meet every month to identify public and private partnerships to leverage funding and expertise to address these emerging needs before they become outstanding health complications.
Our Mission
Our mission is to reduce the harms of tobacco and vaping by empowering communities, supporting youth and families, and advancing public health policies. We work with partners inside and outside tobacco control and public health to generate innovative solutions that complement existing tobacco and vaping prevention and control measures.
Our Vision
We envision a world where young people are free from the harms of nicotine addiction, communities are protected from environmental and health inequities caused by tobacco and vaping, and every individual has access to the education, resources, and support they need to thrive.
ATVFC Leadership
Deidre Hooper, MPH
Public Health Program Manager
Nicolas Polanco
Project Manager
Katie Crane
Public Health Program Associate
Lisbeth Pilier
Community Engagement Specialist