In February, 15 students nationwide were selected to the American Legacy Foundation^®'s Youth Activism Council. Chosen from a competitive field of nominees from across the country, the Council will help Legacy communicate to young people the health risks of using tobacco products, as well as provide training and resources to other organizations concerned with the issue of tobacco use.

Each year, more than 400,000 Americans die from tobacco-related diseases, including heart disease, cancers, emphysema and stroke. Research also shows most smokers start before the age of 18. Educational efforts like the work of the Youth Activism Council are essential to reaching young people with important messages about tobacco -- before they take up smoking.

The council members will gather in early March in Washington, DC, to learn more about their roles and responsibilities, and the work of the foundation as a whole. This year's council will also be tasked with updating the group's name and logo.

"We're committed to improving the council and providing the best experience possible for these young activists," said Reggie Moore, Manager of Youth Activism for the American Legacy Foundation. "By letting this year's council assist in the redesign, we'll be able to jump start both the program and their enthusiasm for the cause."

This year's council will be comprised of young adults ages 18-24. Council members will begin their 18-month terms of service in March.