FAQs for Advocates

What qualifies me to become a Torchbearer?
Torchbearers are people or organizations that want to make a difference in their communities through education, awareness, prevention, leadership and advocacy efforts.

What do Torchbearers strive to achieve?
Torchbearers strive to promote healthy living among women in the community and encourage them to abstain from drinking alcohol while pregnant or while trying to become pregnant.  A torchbearer’s ultimate goal is to help reduce the prevalence of FASD in Florida.

What are some examples of Torchbearers?
Torchbearers should offer a mix of talents, skills and resources. Examples of torchbearers include: individuals with a vested interest in the health issues of his/her community, local health departments, members of civic organizations, recreational businesses, elected leaders, statewide associations, business groups, faith-based organizations, employers, medical professionals, advocacy groups, local media and provider organizations.

What are the responsibilities of a Torchbearer?
Torchbearers can do many things to help raise awareness of FASD. Some of the ways champions can support the Florida Fights FASD campaign include: endorsing the FASD prevention effort to broaden support among local community members; networking and coordinating activities; giving presentations to civic groups; distributing FASD prevention messages and materials to increase awareness; including articles in their organizations’ newsletters or on websites; hosting events or supporting local health fairs and related activities; contacting local media for news coverage and/or ad placement; and providing other resources for the cause.

How do I become a Torchbearer?
If you are interested in becoming a torchbearer or getting involved in the Florida Fights FASD campaign, please click HERE to complete the Torchbearer Registration Form  online! You can contact Kristie Skoglund, Florida Fights FASD project coordinator at (800) 587-1385 or Kristie.Skoglund@TheFloridaCenter.org if you have any additional questions.