Schools

13-Year-Old Tackles Underage Drinking

West Hollow student is chosen to work on MADD's first youth organization.

A West Hollow Middle School student is one of two Long Island teens to be a part of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD)’s first youth empowerment organization. 

Sarah Haiken, 13, will serve on MADD’s Power of You(th) National Teen Influencer Group, which discourages alcohol use among children and teens.

According to the MADD, teen alcohol use kills about 6,000 people each year - more than all other illegal drugs combined. Haiken was nominated for the honor based on her significant contributions to underage drinking prevention in the community, stated a press release from the organization.

Find out what's happening in Half Hollow Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“It’s truly inspiring to see such passion and enthusiasm among these young people,” said MADD National President Jan Withers. “MADD hopes to work with these teens to harness the Power of You(th) and motivate teens around the country to take a stand against underage drinking.”

In working with MADD, the West Hollow student will provide insight on the creation of an underage drinking prevention initiative that empowers young people to make a difference in their community.

Find out what's happening in Half Hollow Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

*This article originally stated that Sarah Haiken was chosen from a video contest. She was selected through a nomination process instead.


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