University of Missouri

PASS (Peers Advocating Smoke-free Solutions)

PASS is a peer education group that focuses on tobacco education prevention and cessation on our campus and in the community through advocacy and policy change. The group is comprised of students who are interested in contributing to clean air on campus and student wellness. This group was instrumental in Columbia bars/restaurants becoming smoke-free in 2007, and also in Mizzou's efforts to become a smoke-free campus.

Throughout the year, PASS does many activities on campus and in the community, including:

• An annual "Kiss Me, I'm a Non-Smoker" health fair, which reaches about 1,000 students
• Outreach and education on tobacco issues in the local high schools
• An annual event in November to promote quitting as part of the Great American Smokeout
• Attending/presenting on relevant tobacco issues at regional and national peer education conferences

PASS is a peer education group that promotes awareness of the dangers of tobacco use, including effects on health, the environment, targeted marketing, and the exploitation of the third world. PASS peers work to encourage clean air in our community and on campus through education, advocacy, and policy change.

PASS students encourage their peers to learn about the many health risks attributed to tobacco use, the lies used by the tobacco industry to recruit new smokers, and how to take advantage of cessation services available on our campus. PASS students also work with campus and community leaders to advocate for healthy smoke-free environments.

Who are PASS peer educators?
PASS peers are undergraduate students who receive extensive training in community education, advocacy, and involvement.

What does PASS do?

• EDUCATION: PASS educators present interactive programs on tobacco such as Tobacco Jeopardy. PASS provides educational pamphlets, articles, websites, and other information to promote awareness of the dangers of tobacco products and how to access resources available for those who want to quit. You may come to the Student Health Center or Wellness Resource Center at any time to obtain resources, inquire about involvement, or to talk to someone if you are thinking of quitting.
• INVOLVEMENT: PASS peers collaborate with other peer groups to promote awareness on campus and in the community. They sponsor and participate in activities such as educational tabling at health fairs, community events, and the Great American Smokeout.
• ADVOCACY: PASS peers worked diligently towards a smoke-free Mizzou. Students are major players in the implementation and enforcement of this policy. By January 2014, Mizzou will be completely smoke-free!
• EVENTS/PRESENTATIONS: Our organization is always looking for new opportunities to collaborate, attend events and present their award-winning programs. Please, request your program at least two weeks in advance. Advance notice gives us time to coordinate and specialize any programming for you.

How do I apply to be a PASS peer educator?
PASS is always looking for enthusiastic, motivated students interested in learning about and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. If you are interested in becoming a peer educator, you may:

• Check out the "Get Involved!" page of the Wellness Resource Center and apply online.
• Pick up an application at the Wellness Resource Center in Bingham Commons.