State Senator Fred Akshar, left, and Lourdes Hospital Student Assistance Program Manager Jill Alford-Hammitt, right, honor Tioga Central High School’s YES LEADS Group, from left, Advisor Janice Barto, Madalyn Dydynski and Derrick Barto.
Senator Fred Akshar and YES Safe Choices were joined by local parents, teachers, and school administrators to honor 625 Broome, Tioga, Chenango and Delaware YES LEADers at the YES LEADers Change Lives Recognition Reception.
YES LEADers are middle and high school students who visit classrooms and use hands-on activities to teach local elementary school students about the dangers of substance abuse, the importance of self-esteem and the value in making healthy choices as they grow up.
“I’m constantly humbled by the inspiration our YES LEADers provide to their peers and others,” said Senator Akshar, adding, “From the start, I’ve said that education is the best prevention, and the next generation’s commitment to teaching others about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse is invaluable to our community.”
As a three year YES LEADer, Owego Free Academy senior Kennedy Keefer believes the program has helped shape her into the person she is today. “I love doing community service and being a role model to younger kids. The community outreach each year has taught me that little projects can make a difference.”
YES Safe Choices is a partnership between Senator Akshar and Lourdes Hospital. Owego-Apalachin, Tioga Central, and Waverly school districts participate in the YES LEADS program.
This year’s LEADers, representing 14 school districts, will have presented to over 4,600 elementary students by the end of the school year.
For more information about YES Safe Choices and YES LEADS, visit www.YesSafeChoices.org.
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