
The award recognizes prevention leaders who forge relationships with and educate local elected officials about key substance abuse-related issues. Victor was honored at CADCA’s 29th annual National Leadership Forum in National Harbor, Md. The forum is a training event for community-based substance abuse prevention professionals, coalition leaders, and prevention and addiction researchers.
Victor, a junior from Buffalo Grove, was honored for his advocacy work as an intern for U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider, and for his efforts with Catalyst and the Stand Strong Coalition. In particular, the group cited his leadership against marijuana legalization in Illinois. He also has been involved in the Political Action Club and in Youth and Government at Stevenson.
Victor was joined at the forum by Vrushali Thakkar, a junior from Vernon Hills. They were chosen last summer to be youth trainers at the forum, which included about 500 young people from around the country. This video includes Victor and Vrushali addressing those in attendance. Victor speaks at the 1:34 mark, while Vrushali begins at 7:54.
The CADCA Advocate of the Year award is given to two individuals. Joining Victor as a recipient was Lisa Roberts, a nurse and anti-drug community coalition leader in Ohio.
Source: Adlai E. Stevenson High School Daily Digest - February 9, 2019