The Harford County Cancer & Tobacco Community Coalition needs your help in making sure that all Harford County voices are heard and needs are addressed to reduce cancer prevalence and tobacco use.

By participating in the Coalition, you will be able to make sure that we are aware of the needs of the community you represent.

You will also have the opportunity to provide the Health Department with information regarding the attitudes, fears and problems affecting your friends and neighbors related to cancer and tobacco.

How much does it cost to join the Coalition?

Nothing! There is no cost associated with being a member of the Coalition except for your time. By participating in the Coalition, you can help insure that your community receives the attention it deserves which is very valuable.

Will the Health Department really listen to what I have to say?

The Harford County Health Department, led by Susan Kelly, Acting Health Officer, is firmly committed to a community based planning process. The legislatively mandated role of the Coalition is to advise the Health Officer regarding the tobacco and cancer prevention needs of the local community.

Coalition members develop annual action plans, with technical assistance from health department staff. The plan is then presented to Dr. Bernstein for his approval. No initiative can be considered that isn't first presented to and voted on by the Coalition.

How often does the Coalition meet?

The entire Coalition meets once every year. Each section (Tobacco and Cancer) meets quarterly. During the grant writing phase (March and April), workgroups within each section meet more frequently. However, you decide what level of participation you want to have.

Can more than one person from my organization join the Coalition?

Yes! In fact, we encourage it. Ideally, we would like each community represented by two advocates, one working in the tobacco section and one working in the cancer section. However, if one person has the time needed to do both, or if several people would like to participate, that's fine too.

I've never done anything like this before. Can someone help me learn how to participate effectively?

Yes. The Health Department provides technical assistance you need to participate effectively and advocate for the needs of your community. During the year, opportunities are available for community based organizations to participate in grant writing and grant management trainings to help prepare to write and receive grant funding for qualified programs.

What do I do to join?

Tobacco Section: Call Linda Pegram, Coalition Coordinator at 410.638.8405 and let her know that you want to be a part of this important work. You can also email her at lpegram@tobaccoandcancerfree.org.

Cancer Section: Contact Elizabeth Holmes, Coalition Coordinator at 443.643.0349 and let her know that you want to be part of this important work. You can also email her at eholmes@tobaccoandcancerfree.org.