The University of Iowa Prevention Research Center for Rural Health (PRC-RH) is continuing its commitment to Iowa’s health and well-being through PEAQ (Partners Engaging to Advance Quitline), a community‑driven project focused on supporting tobacco and nicotine prevention and cessation among young adults (ages 18–29) living in Iowa’s micropolitan communities.
PEAQ reflects the PRC‑RH mission at its core: working alongside trusted local partners to strengthen community‑identified goals and promote health through collaboration, respect for local context, and shared learning.
Why Focus on Young Adults?
Young adulthood is often a period of transition. Many individuals are navigating changes in work, education, housing, and relationships, and may no longer have the same structures of support they might have grown up with. These transitions can create both challenges and opportunities.
PEAQ aims to reach young adults who are considering quitting tobacco or nicotine. By offering supportive, community‑based messages centered on connection and available resources, the project recognizes young adulthood as a meaningful moment for positive change.
Why Micropolitan Communities?
Micropolitan hubs—such as Muscatine—serve as vital centers for surrounding rural regions, connecting residents to healthcare, employment, and social networks. Rather than viewing these communities as isolated, PEAQ builds on their strengths as gathering points where partnerships already exist and relationships matter.
By collaborating in micropolitan settings, the project can engage young adults who live, work, study, or regularly travel through these communities, while also learning lessons that can inform efforts across rural Iowa.
Our Community‑Centered Approach
PEAQ emphasizes co‑creation and partnership at every stage. The project brings together young adults, public health leaders, employers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to shape outreach strategies that feel relevant, authentic, and locally grounded. Efforts focus on increasing awareness and use of Quitline Iowa as a free, effective, flexible, and confidential support option, while remaining responsive to community priorities and strengths.
As Charla Shafer, President of the Community Foundation of Greater Muscatine, notes:
“Our youth do not experience life in silos, yet that is often how our systems are designed to support and serve them. Sustainable success becomes more firmly within reach when we create trusted navigational relationships linked to a network of interconnected community supports.”
This perspective underscores the heart of PEAQ and PRC‑RH’s broader work: strengthening connections among systems, partners, and people to support healthier communities.
Looking Ahead
The PEAQ project runs through the remainder of the PRC-RH funding cycle (2024-2029). As the work continues, the PRC‑RH looks forward to sharing updates about partnerships, engagement activities, and lessons learned—all grounded in collaboration and a shared commitment to prevention and wellbeing.