Youth Voice Project comes to life at the Fond du Lac YMCA

The voices of Wisconsin youth will take center stage at the Fond du Lac YMCA during the week of
September 14th, as the Youth Voice Project Traveling Banners make their way to the community.
The Youth Voice Project is a statewide initiative led by nicotine prevention coalitions across Wisconsin to give young
people a meaningful opportunity to share how vaping and nicotine has affected their lives, their families, and their
communities.
As part of the project, youth watched an educational video about nicotine and vaping and then responded to one simple
but powerful question: “How has vaping or nicotine impacted your life?”
Thousands of youth voices were collected through this activity. Participating coalitions then reviewed and analyzed the
responses, identifying common themes and experiences that emerged across communities resulting in a powerful
collection of words and perspectives. The banners go beyond statistics. They provide a firsthand look at the real impact
nicotine can have on young people — including its effects on relationships, mental well-being, family members, school,
finances, and everyday life.
“These banners give us an opportunity to hear directly from young people about the impact they are seeing and
experiencing,” said Johanna Brotz, Commercial Tobacco Prevention and Treatment Coordinator. “Behind every statistic
is a young person, a family, or a community affected by nicotine. These youth voices remind us why prevention matters
and why we need to continue creating healthier environments for the next generation.”
The Fond du Lac community is encouraged to visit the Fond du Lac YMCA during the week of September 14 to see the
Youth Voice Project Traveling Banners. Families, youth, educators, community leaders, and anyone interested in youth
health are invited to stop by, take time to read the messages, and reflect on what local and Wisconsin youth are telling
us about nicotine.
Community members will also have an opportunity to learn more about the local East Central Alliance on Nicotine
Prevention Coalition, resources and how to get involved. September 14–16, from 4–5 p.m., local coordinator Johanna
Brotz will be at the Fond du Lac YMCA to answer questions, connect community members with resources, and share
ways to get involved.
Youth Voice Project Traveling Banners
Fond du Lac YMCA
Week of September 14, 2026
September 14–16 | 4–5 pm: Coalition information and resources available with Johanna Brotz
Families, youth and community members are encouraged to attend.
Come see the stories. Hear the voices. Understand the impac