Felicia Sanders, a senior at Carmel High School, was awarded the 28th annual Hamilton County Youth Service Award on Monday. The ceremony is sponsored by the Hamilton County Commissioners and the Hamilton County Council on Alcohol and Other Drugs (HCCOAOD). Sanders was awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
Sanders is a student trainer and advocate for Take Down Tobacco and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. She informs her peers on how and why commercial tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, are a major problem for public health, the local environment, and local communities. She was also a member of former Congresswoman Susan Brooks’ Youth Advisory Group, where she discussed legislative solutions that could help deter youth access to tobacco and tobacco-related products.
Sanders
“I have a friend who was unable to participate in volleyball due to the damage vaping inflicted on her lungs,” Sander said. “That experience helped me realize I wanted to be involved in the public health sector and work directly with lawmakers. My goal is to be a part of a generation of policymakers that works to promote health among all groups, including youth and racial minorities.”
Four other students were nominated for the Youth Service Award by their school’s counseling department. The other nominees included Brian Zachary from Hamilton Heights High School, Mya McGavic from Noblesville High School, Cameron Ney from Sheridan High School, and Claire Davis from Westfield High School. They will each receive a $300 scholarship.
“We are proud of each of the applicants that have chosen to lead a drug free lifestyle and contribute their time to help make positive changes in the lives of others,” HCCAOD Executive Director Monica Greer said.