The OPHA Adolescent Risky Behavior Policy Task Force was formed by members with diverse interests that were related to youth at risk for public health problems. The group reviewed the literature regarding factors involved in adolescent risk taking behavior, including tobacco use, alcohol and drug abuse, violence, sexual activity, lack of exercise, and poor nutrition. Oregon data was compared to national statistics. Best practices to prevent or intervene in risk taking were highlighted. The end of the report included recommendations for future action.
The report was distributed to related groups and all state legislators at the beginning of the 1999 legislative session. Alliances were formed with groups involved with juvenile crime prevention, community schools, controlling access to weapons, and opposition to mandatory minimum sentencing. Testimony was provided for selected bills. An email list for OPHA members kept them informed about current legislative activity and enabled them to contact legislators regarding specific bills, including a juvenile crime prevention bill that passed.
The task force plans to increase its visibility and partnerships and to pursue legislative advocacy approach in the 2001 state session.
The OPHA Policy Committee is distributing a questionnaire to all OPHA members to encourage them to join a task force and to solicit participation in an email tree that will activate members to telephone and/or meet with their representatives regarding pending legislation. Training in contact techniques and media advocacy will be provided. The group is also exploring the possibility of seeking sponsorship for public health legislation.
Learning Objectives: 1. understand the long range process of organizing for an effective advocacy strategy for the positive development of adolescents 2. understand the sequence of action steps needed to carry out an advocacy plan 3. understand the components of an effective plan including alliances, goals, communication, homework, and timely action
Keywords: Adolescents, Advocacy
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.