My Story

Sara

Before I learned of Prevention Network and the Teen Institute of CNY program, I was just trying to find my voice in our school TI program.  I strongly believed in what the group stood for but I lacked the skills of a true leader.  I would never speak up at the meetings even if I had something to say.  All that changed after my first TI conference in 2008.  I was surprised that people were not afraid to do things that would get them funny looks or sideways glances there.  I was inspired by that, and I wanted to be someone who could get up in front of a crowd.  They shaped me into that person by breaking me out of my shell, teaching me to let go, and most importantly teaching me the worst thing you can do is do nothing.

I am a member of the TI youth staff. I am organized and confident.  I am reliable. I am the spontaneous crazy teenager who speaks her mind, who (occasionally) chugs down a cup of water and begins to play the cup game, and knows how to “go bananas”.  I am who I am because Of TI.  I am a leader.