Maria focuses on a future of helping
Personal struggle, many times, leads to greatness. Maria is a prime example of turning personal struggles into a mission and vision for the future. When Maria was a toddler, her […]

POSITIVELY ELKHART COUNTY

Personal struggle, many times, leads to greatness. Maria is a prime example of turning personal struggles into a mission and vision for the future.

When Maria was a toddler, her parents found out she was hearing impaired. However, this did not stop the bright and creative toddler. Then when she was 14, it was discovered that she had cancer, which impacted her vision. This also did not stop her.

Maria began volunteering with the Special Education students when she was in 4th grade. She found a place where she could brighten someone’s day. She continued to volunteer with individuals with disabilities throughout middle and high school. The ability to really see an individual with a disability is critical to a good life for both people. So many individuals who live with disabilities are viewed only as one big disability. Maria is one of those unique people who values an individual no matter what.

Her tenacity has led her to shake off any limitations. In elementary school, she was the only girl on the football team. She ran track, played basketball, golf, and loves to longboard with her trusted dog pal, Willis.

Maria’s volunteer work that began as a 4th grader is now her passion for the future. She will begin attending Ivy Tech this year to pursue a degree in Special Education. She dreams of starting a nonprofit one day. She will focus on helping individuals with cancer who have had to leave their pets behind during treatment. This is a personal mission for Maria, as when she was seeking treatment for her cancer, she missed her dog and the family that had to stay home. The cost to board her pet was something that was beyond reach, meaning her time with her family was limited. Maria wants to be sure other individuals with cancer don’t have to sacrifice visits with their family or the fear and loss of a beloved pet.

#WeRPositive that Maria accomplishes all of her dreams, and those touched by her kindness will have a better life. Maria is an excellent example of a young person who is making a life filled with good. We ask if you know of a young person who is making a difference that you Share Your Good with us.

We believe that healthy truths reduce use.

The healthy truth: Teens in Elkhart County aren’t drinking, smoking or using drugs.

But their peers think they are — and that makes a big difference.

Positively Elkhart County is a social norming campaign that aims to change students’ attitudes, behaviors and perceptions surrounding alcohol and drug use.

The goal of our program is to show students in our community that drinking and using drugs is NOT the norm and is NOT “cool.” Research shows this approach will reduce use over time.

Most teens in Elkhart County are making positive choices about alcohol, nicotine, and other drugs.

However, many believe they are in the minority and their typical peers engage in substance use. What teens think about their peers’ behavior has a strong influence on their own choices.

Our surveys show that high school students who believe their typical peer uses drugs or alcohol are 2-3 times more likely to engage in use themselves.

TEEN DRINKING OVER PAST 30 DAYS

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When Students Believe Their Typical Peer Drinks

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When Students Know Their Typical Peers Do NOT Drink

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