Fox Friday: Fox Lane’s Youth to Youth Co-Presidents Advocate in Albany

Fox Friday is a series that highlights the accomplishments of students districtwide. We regularly feature the incredible things our students are up to — whether they are excelling academically, athletically or are quietly impressive. 

Last month, as part of National Prevention Awareness week, Fox Lane High School juniors Lindsay Malley and Sofia Valente, along with students from five other high schools, met with several state Senators and Assembly members in the Legislative Office Building in Albany to discuss the importance of substance use prevention.

Co-presidents of the Youth to Youth Club and members of the Westchester Youth Leadership Task Force, Lindsay and Sofia provided examples of their work in substance use prevention. They also met with Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, the Commissioner of the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports, and members of her staff, along with a representative from the Governor's office.

“Lindsay and Sofia were prepared, poised, articulate, sincere, and enthusiastic in discussing the importance of substance use prevention,” said Ellen Morehouse, Executive Director of the Student Assistance Services Corporation. “They were also terrific advocates. You can be very proud of how they represented Fox Lane High School.” 

We spoke to Lindsay and Sofia to learn more about their visit and advocacy.

Tell me about your experience meeting with Senators and Assembly members in Albany.

LINDSAY: It was very lowkey and cooperative. Every student got a turn to express their community efforts and ideas, creating a collaborative environment. We got to explore the capital and legislative buildings and learn more on how government policies work and their difficulties.The state representatives we met take lots of time and effort to represent us as best they can. 

We discussed some of the activities we do around the school for prevention. What was really interesting was seeing what other schools did and collaborating on ideas. We also were encouraged by our representatives about prevention reforms that were important to us as teens and the younger generation as their voice. One group from Harlem even introduced the idea of a new regulation of not putting alcohol products next to soft drinks in order to prevent accidental sales of alcohol to minors. It was inspirational.

SOFIA: It was very exciting! Considering there was a limited attendance, and we were specifically chosen for this trip, I felt so special to represent Fox Lane. We had the honor of talking about what our goal is as a club and some of the steps we take to accomplish our goals. Not only did we talk to and inspire other students, but we had the opportunity to talk to senator Peter Harckham and attend a short meeting with Commissioner Cunningham in the Capitol. 

We discussed the motive behind our Youth to Youth club, drug and alcohol abuse awareness, and some of the activities we do as a club. We listened and learned from other schools about the steps they take to ensure a clean community and took notes on how to incorporate new ideas into our plans for next year. 

Was it intimidating? If so, how did you work through that?

LINDSAY: It was a little intimidating, since you had to stand up in front of a long table of other student presenters. I think, though, that it was more comforting knowing that other students your age were in the same boat as you. I am also a singer and performer so big crowds don't affect me much.

SOFIA: At first, it was intimidating, but I realized I am grateful to have been prepared productively by our club advisor, Mrs. Alvarado. The speeches we delivered were made and critiqued beforehand, so the only part left for us to do was to perform. I have been prepared to speak publicly because of the opportunities Youth to Youth has given me and because of previous assignments in other classes. 

What was the best part of the experience? 

LINDSAY: It was very interesting to see how representatives decide which bills to support and which aspects of prevention require the most attention. I am so appreciative that they wanted to hear the opinions of the actual communities they support. It helps us know there is someone at the table truly advocating for what we need. 

SOFIA: The best part of the experience was the recognition Lindsay and I gained from our presence. We were told several times our speeches were great, our confidence was noticeable, and the work we have done is incredible. Overall, just being there and having the opportunity to represent Fox Lane was truly special. 

Can you explain what the Youth to Youth Club is?

SOFIA: Our Youth to Youth club helps raise awareness for drug and alcohol abuse prevention as well helping students find healthier ways to manage their stress. As co-president, I aim to always be a leader in our club meetings, as well as leading by example, staying engaged and encouraging participation in promoting our goals.

Lindsay and I work great together to run efficient meetings, plan events, and create solid relationships with our club members. I was so lucky to be chosen as co-president, but I think it shows the dedication I have put in during previous years in this club.

We have a great group of students and have created a sense of community with one another. Our club’s success has gained attention from other adults in the building as well as other students who are not a part of the club. We are so lucky to be a part of something so special. 

Can you tell me about the prevention activities you do at the high school?

LINDSAY: We decorate the whole school for Red Ribbon Week, hold spirit weeks, run hot cocoa sales with positive mental health and prevention messages, and promote gambling awareness and Children of Addictions Week activities. We also host a senior prom alcohol awareness seminar that is mandatory for all seniors attending prom, in order to ensure safe driving and a substance-free event. During this assembly, presenter Kathy Sullivan teaches the students about the Good Samaritan Law and the legal aspects of liability.

How did you get involved with the Westchester Youth Leadership Task Force? What is your role there and what sorts of things do you do?

SOFIA: I got involved with the Westchester Youth Leadership Task Force through Mrs. Alvarado because she was constantly promoting it. Westchester County Youth Task Force is a collaboration of teens throughout Westchester County. We join Zoom meetings monthly to discuss the steps we can take together to create a cleaner community.

One example of things we have done this year is successfully reaching out to local pizza businesses to have informational stickers placed on the takeout boxes, briefly describing alcohol’s connection with gambling, specifically during Super Bowl Weekend.

Additionally, Westchester County Youth Task Force hosted a youth leadership conference that revolved around conflict resolution, which gave students the opportunity to collaborate for a common good. I love the Westchester Youth Leadership Task Force because it gives me the opportunity to meet other students from all over Westchester and we can all work together to create so many opportunities.

What were you advocating for in Albany? 

LINDSAY: We were advocating for more funding statewide for prevention so that schools like ours can continue to have student assistance counselors. This gives students the opportunity to feel open about talking about their issues with substances and offers resources to recover—especially for those who can't afford a social worker or therapist outside of school!