POW’R Against Tobacco Celebrates 25 Years of Lifesaving Work in New York State

Dozens of state and local landmarks will be illuminated purple next week on November 20, 2025 as POW’R Against Tobacco along with other local and statewide tobacco prevention programs celebrate the 25th anniversary of the New York State Tobacco Control Program. The lighting initiative, known as Illuminating 25 Years of Landmark Progress, serves as a visual tribute to the program’s many successes in saving lives and building healthier, tobacco-free communities across New York. The tribute aligns with the Great American Smokeout, which encourages people who smoke to make a plan to quit.

To mark the occasion, POW’R Against Tobacco partnered with local organizations in Yonkers and Carmel to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping and empower young people to make healthy choices. In Yonkers, students, supported by Reality Check and Student Assistance Services staff, used the “Chalk the Walk” and “Airing Out Big Tobacco’s Dirty Laundry” projects to transform school sidewalks and hallways into vivid displays of art and advocacy, sharing bold messages that expose Big Tobacco’s deception and highlight the harmful effects of smoking and vaping. At Carmel High School, students collaborated with the Prevention Council of Putnam and POW’R to educate their peers about the risks of vaping and to shine a light on the industry’s continued efforts to target youth. Together, these youth-led initiatives showcase the power of student voices in promoting awareness, challenging industry influence, and inspiring a tobacco-free generation across the region.

While youth tobacco use in New York has dropped to a record low of 17%, vaping and nicotine pouches remain a concern. That’s why this year’s celebration also focuses on empowering people of all ages to quit—and stay quit. Whether you’re a teen or an adult, here are some expert-backed tips to help you take the next step:

Quit Smoking Tips:

• It’s never too late to quit. The Great American Smokeout reminds us that quitting tobacco at any age improves your health, saves money, and can inspire others. You’ll also avoid the hassle of going outside in the cold to smoke or vape.
• Learn from past experiences. Most people who smoke, chew, or vape have tried to quit before. Don’t be discouraged—each attempt is a step toward success. Reflect on what helped and what you might do differently next time.
• You don’t have to quit alone. Enrolling in a proven program like the American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking and leaning on friends and family can double your chances of quitting for good.
• Talk to your doctor. There are seven FDA-approved medications that can help you quit. Used properly and consistently, they can significantly boost your chances of success.
• Quit. Don’t switch. E-cigarettes are still tobacco products. The FDA has not approved any e-cigarette as a safe or effective quit aid. Real quitting means ending your addiction to nicotine—not replacing it.

For young people ages 13–24, the New York State Quitline offers DROPTHEVAPE, a free, confidential quit service. Visit nysmokefree.com/drop-the-vape or call 866-NY-QUITS to get started. For adults seeking support, the American Lung Association’s Freedom From Smoking program is available statewide and has helped hundreds of thousands of people quit for good. The program combines expert guidance with peer support to increase your chances of quitting and staying quit.

About POW’R Against Tobacco: 

POW’R Against Tobacco, a program of the American Lung Association, is a network of local agencies and individuals working together to reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and to promote healthy communities. POW’R serves Putnam, Orange and Westchester counties in New York State. POW’R is funded by the New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Tobacco Control. To learn more visit: POWRAgainstTobacco.org.