Nicotine Free Greater Mankato Coalition Launches Love Your Lungs Campaign

Nicotine-Free Greater Mankato is starting a new awareness campaign to educate youth, parents, and caregivers about the dangers of flavored tobacco products. The campaign, titled Love Your Lungs, focuses on raising awareness throughout the Greater Mankato area and building momentum to end the sale of flavored commercial tobacco products in the community.

Emily Heinis, Marketing and Engagement Director at Open Door Health Center, Mankato, and coalition member, continues to speak out about the risks flavored tobacco poses to young people. “Nicotine used in adolescence can affect parts of the brain the control learning, mood, memory, and more,” Heinis said. “Flavored tobacco products appeal directly to youth. Nearly 70% of students who vape want to quit, and many have tried ten times or more. We need to act now.”

As part of the “Love Your Lungs” campaign, the coalition will host a Nicotine-Free Night Out on this Friday, July 11th at the Mankato Moondogs Game. Madison Coleman, local coalition organizer, shared her excitement about the upcoming event. “This is more than just a night at the ballpark—it’s a chance to come together as a community, have fun, and support protecting our youth from a lifetime of nicotine addiction,” she said. “We’ll have a certified Quit Coach available for anyone thinking about quitting or just wanting someone to talk to. Plus, we’ve got a ton of fun planned: a race with mascot Mutnik, a kids’ zone with chalk, coloring, and games between innings, swag giveaways, and more. Bring the whole family and enjoy a great night out.”

Join Nicotine-Free Greater Mankato at the Mankato Moondogs game on Friday, July 11 for a night of fun, connection, and community support. No registration needed—just show up and enjoy! For more details about the Love Your Lungs campaign, visit loveyourlungsmankato.org.