The YES LEADS group from Bainbridge-Guilford High School are honored by New York State Senator Fred Akshar for their work educating elementary students about the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

ENDICOTT– Senator Fred Akshar and YES Safe Choices were joined by local parents, teachers and school administrators to honor 645 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.”

Two Chenango County YES LEADers were among the three winners of the Jill Kavanagh Memorial YES LEADS Scholarships. Reb Beltrano, a senior from Afton High School, and Brandon Scherhaufer, a senior from Bainbridge-Guilford High School, were selected based on their contributions to their school’s YES LEADS programs and commitment to substance-free lifestyles. Reb, a 3-year YES LEADS member, received a $500 scholarship and will be attending D’Youvill College this Fall, majoring in Occupational Therapy.