I started doing the Walks because my best friend Ashli asked me to, but continue to do them every year for that and so much more. Easterseals not only brought Ashli, Rayleen, and many of my other close friends into my life, it has helped me and continues to help me grow into the woman I am today. Through Easterseals camps I made friends and memories that will last a lifetime. Through the Youth Leadership programs I developed skills that I use daily. 

I am proud to say I work as the Youth Program Manager at this great organization helping other youth get those same experiences I was fortunate enough to receive. Some of our program include

#TeachDisabilityHistory - This youth led campaign is focused on spreading awareness about the importance of teaching disability history through various presentations, events, and advocacy.

Thrive Mentoring Program - We strive to bring together people with disabilities to connect and learn from one another. We invite disabled individuals to join in the community that will best fit them. Our mentoring programs include both community groups as well as an overnight retreat.

Youth Leadership Network - The YLN promotes self-advocacy and self-awareness for youth with disabilities ages 14 to 26. This is an opportunity for youth to make friends in their local communities and within the larger Network group.

As I said, I started doing the Walk because my best friend asked me to, but will continue to, to remember and honor her and Rayleen as well as to support Easterseals.