News and Events

Recognizing Excellence in Tobacco Education and Prevention
May 29, 2024

As we reflect on the past year, the Tobacco Free Partnership of DeSoto County is proud to recognize the outstanding dedication and achievements of our Member of the Year, Oralia Ramirez. Oralia's unwavering commitment to tobacco education and prevention has significantly advanced our mission of creating a healthier, tobacco-free community.

Oralia Ramirez: A Pillar of Support and Advocacy

Oralia Ramirez has been a member of our Partnership for the past few years, serving as an active board member for the past two. Despite being a business owner, mom of two, and playing an active role serving our community in many ways, Oralia has consistently dedicated her time and efforts to our anti-tobacco initiatives. Our goal is to ensure the safety of all DeSoto County residents, especially our youth, and Oralia has been an invaluable part of our success. Her exceptional leadership and passion for community service have made a lasting impact on our program.

Oralia has been instrumental in spearheading several key projects aimed at reducing tobacco use and educating the public about its dangers. Her work includes community outreach and education, particularly her dedication to organizing and hosting a Suncoast Remake Learning Day event in partnership with our Tobacco Free Partnership and Drug Free Coalition. This event alone reached over a hundred residents with crucial information about the harmful effects of tobacco use and the benefits of quitting. Oralia also played a pivotal role in our efforts to implement policy changes within our City and County-owned parks. Her advocacy helped secure new legislation aimed at creating smoke-free environments, making our community safer for all residents.

A Heart for the Community

Oralia’s dedication to our community is truly remarkable. She has never turned down an opportunity to volunteer her time and talents, always going above and beyond. Her efforts have not only helped reduce tobacco use but also inspired many others to get active in our community, in many ways, to make DeSoto County a better place.

We are deeply grateful for Oralia’s extraordinary contributions and are proud to have her as a vital member of our tobacco-free partnership. Her hard work and passion serve as an inspiration to all of us, and we look forward to achieving even greater milestones together in the future.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Oralia's achievements, we are excited about the opportunities ahead to continue our mission of promoting tobacco education and prevention. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook or visit our website at https://tfp-desoto.org/

If you are interested in volunteer opportunities and how you can make a difference by joining our Tobacco Free Partnership, please contact Jodie DeLoach, DeSoto County Tobacco Program Manager at jdeloach@quitdoc.com.