ORONO, Maine – The University of Maine Athletics Department has announced a partnership with the Maine QuitLink, a free, confidential resource designed to help Mainers quit smoking, vaping and using other tobacco products.
The Maine QuitLink partnership with the Black Bears is a powerful initiative aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle by leveraging the influence of UMaine coaches and players as relatable role models. These individuals embody qualities such as discipline, leadership, and perseverance, making them ideal ambassadors for encouraging positive change.
"We are excited to partner with the UMaine system to address young adult tobacco use," says Erik Gordon, Tobacco Prevention & Control Manager at the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention. "Any time we can help keep a young adult from starting to use tobacco or vaping, the data supports they are far less likely to use tobacco or vape at any point in their life. This partnership also provides options for young people who use tobacco, want to quit, and may need a little extra help. This is a great opportunity to reach students at such an important age, to make changes and decisions that will have long term health impacts."
The Maine QuitLink provides free and confidential resources with online and phone-based tools and professional support to help adults and youth stop smoking or vaping. Studies have shown that quitting tobacco with a little extra help is more successful than trying to quit without help. The Maine QuitLink is a program of the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention.
This collaboration builds on UMaine's leadership in being a tobacco-free campus and goes beyond just the local community to reach students, faculty, staff, and families across the campuses of the UMaine System. By aligning with the core values of the UMaine brand and fostering a sense of unity, the partnership seeks to deliver a message that quitting tobacco is achievable with the right support.
Through this partnership, Maine QuitLink gains access to the trusted voices within the UMaine Athletics program, amplifying the impact of their message. The focus is not just on quitting tobacco but on empowering individuals to prioritize their health and well-being, creating a ripple effect of positive influence throughout the UMaine system.
With the support of Maine QuitLink's resources, individuals are encouraged to take the first step toward a tobacco-free lifestyle, supported by a network that believes in their success. Anyone can get started by visiting MaineQuitLink.com.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building a healthier, stronger, and more vibrant UMaine community.
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