Sen. Akshar, Lourdes and YES honor hundreds of local student leaders

(Endicott, NY) Senator Fred Akshar and YES Safe Choices were joined by local parents, teachers and school administrators to honor 650 Broome, Tioga and Chenango 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.

“The amount of time, effort and energy that YES LEADers dedicate to our community is amazing,” said Senator Akshar. “They’re touching countless lives by teaching invaluable lessons to younger kids about committing to making safe choices.”

Senator Akshar also announced the winners of the Jill Kavanagh Memorial YES LEADS Scholarships. Brandon Scherhaufer, a Bainbridge-Guilford Central High School senior, received a $2,000 scholarship. Amanda Strauss, a Union-Endicott Central High School senior, received a $1,000 scholarship. Reb Beltrano, an Afton Central High School senior, received a $500 scholarship. These three students were chosen based upon their contributions to their school’s YES LEADS program and commitment to a substance-free lifestyle.

“Brandon, Amanda and Reb have spent years spreading the important message that you don’t need to drink, do drugs or bully to have fun. I’m blown away by the inspiration they serve to their peers and younger students,” said Senator Akshar.

YES Safe Choices is a partnership between Senator Akshar and Lourdes Hospital. This year’s LEADers, representing 13 school districts, will have presented to over 4,500 elementary students by the end of the school year.

For more information about YES Safe Choices and YES LEADS, please visit www.YesSafeChoices.org.