John Risch III, Commissioner | City of Bismarck
John Risch III, Commissioner | City of Bismarck
Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health (BBPH) is set to host the Break Free Youth Action Summit on October 7, 2025, at the Bismarck Event Center. The event, organized in partnership with Tobacco Free North Dakota, will bring together about 150 middle and high school students and their advisors. Participation in the summit is free of charge.
The summit aims to support youth advocates in their efforts to promote a tobacco-free generation. Students attending the event will receive resources and guidance to help them advocate for change within their communities.
Samuel Allen, a national youth advocacy leader from Truth Initiative, will deliver the keynote address. He will be joined by Truth Champions who will discuss national strategies that have contributed to reducing youth tobacco use. Attendees will also learn about leadership skills and methods for strengthening youth involvement in tobacco prevention.
Alex Menke, BBPH tobacco prevention specialist, said, “We are excited to host the annual Bismarck Youth Action Summit. National organizations like Truth Initiative have made an impact in the tobacco prevention space, and we are looking forward to providing students with new ways to learn about the role they play in advocating for a healthier tomorrow. Tobacco prevention is vital in our communities, and attending the summit gives students the tools they need to take action not just for their own life but for a healthier world.”
Recent data shows that while traditional smoking rates among youth have declined, e-cigarette use remains prevalent among high school students. The 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey reports that 18% of North Dakota high school students currently vape, compared with 9% of adults.
Following the summit, participating students plan to collaborate on activities supporting upcoming health initiatives such as the Great American Smokeout on November 20 and the Great American Spit Out on February 19, 2026.
More information about the event can be found at https://tfnd.org/youth-action-summit/.
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