NLSADD

The Fourth Day of SADDmas

by Rachael Pishtek

            My name is Jacob and I am a former SADD student and now SADD advisor. SADD has been part of my life since 2010 and I have been involved on the local, state and national levels. I have always noticed that the peer to peer positive influence is priceless. Other organizations offer it, but they do not provide as much opportunity to grow as a leader to make that positive change.

I see Northern Lights changing lives in a positive way in my students, friends and even my family members every day. The courage I have now, thanks to NL SADD, has given me countless opportunities to impact those around me. A good example that comes to mind is an instance when one of my students came to talk to me about his past. He explained to me had made some really tough choices that he regrets. It was not until he came to a SADD event that he realized there are a lot of people that care about him. The people are not perfect, but they have incredible hearts. He told me that one small choice to go to a fun night instead of staying at home made a huge difference in how he sees not only high school, but life.

Being that I am an advisor for SADD, I see first hand the impact my students have on their peers and the culture of the school. As for the community, I have noticed more people taking responsibility for the destructive habits.

I have seen improvement with the issue of underage drinking being addressed by SADD chapters across the state. I have heard amazing stories about fun and exciting awareness events or ways to provide that healthy alternative. Showing kids that there are healthier ways to have fun that do not involve drinking is one of my biggest passions.

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