Health Rocks! | Tennessee 4-H Youth Development

4-H Health Rocks! is a fun, hands-on program that helps young people build the skills they need to make healthy choices. Through activities and discussions led by caring adults and teen leaders, participants learn how to manage stress, think critically, handle peer pressure, and communicate effectively. With a special focus on preventing the use of drugs, alcohol, vaping, and tobacco, Health Rocks! Empowers youth to take charge of their well-being and develop the confidence to say no to risky behaviors.

Youth ages 8–12 (beginner level curriculum)

Youth ages 12–14 (intermediate level curriculum)

Adult and teen leaders who serve as mentors and role models

Decision-Making: Learn how to weigh choices and make healthy ones

Stress Management: Explore strategies to stay calm and in control

Peer Pressure: Practice how to stand up for yourself and say no

Communication: Build skills to share your thoughts and listen to others

Substance Prevention: Understand the risks of drugs, alcohol, vaping, and tobacco

Builds life skills that last far beyond the program

Brings youth and adults together to strengthen communities

Encourages healthy habits and confidence to resist risky behaviors

4-H Health Rocks! is offered by Extension agents, program assistants, and trained volunteers who bring the lessons to life through fun, hands-on activities. These leaders are committed to helping youth build skills that lead to healthy lifestyles. To request a Health Rocks! program in your community, contact Erin Ortiz eortiz7@utk.edu

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug prevention awareness campaign. Red Ribbon Week began after the death of Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena was brutally murdered by drug traffickers in Mexico. After his death, people wanted to honor his sacrifice. In 1985, celebrations began in California where Camarena grew up, and in 1988, the National Family Partnership started the first national Red Ribbon Week.

You can celebrate Red Ribbon week with help from the Red Ribbon Campaign Website. Share how you are celebrating on social media and use #RedRibbonTN and tag us on Facebook @Tennessee4H and Instagram @tennessee_4h