Sunday Student Spotlight: Meet Maddy Walinchus
(By Hillie Brumfield)
“The lure of the distant and difficult is deceptive. The great opportunity is where you are.” (John Burroughs)
“My name is Madison Walinchus. I am fifteen years old. I am a sophomore at ThunderRidge High School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. I lead a reasonably busy life due to my engagements in a variety of activities, including all honors classes and an AP class. I currently train year round for triathlon, but only compete for fun. I teach children’s yoga at the local elementary school. I enjoy anything that has to do with the outdoor, you name it.”
Each week, as I sit to write the Student Spotlight for Colorado Young Leaders, I am continually blown away by the youth of this organization. Their hearts and love for others and life is contagious and beyond inspiring. As I hear about their goals, hobbies, dreams, and ambitions, I cannot help but evaluate my own life and the things that identify me. These students and activists are changing their communities and those around them and as you continue to follow our Sunday Student Spotlights each week, I know you will feel and find that your life and values are changing too.
Hillie: “What is your role in Colorado Young Leaders?”
Madison: “I have been a consistent member since the very beginning. I am also one of the sophomore representatives on the Youth Advisory Board.”
Hillie: “What is your own definition of CYL?”
Madison: “My definition of CYL is a positive, enthusiastic group of high school students who have a passion for helping others in their community, who have dreams of changing the world…at least changing someone else’s world.”
Hillie: “What would you say CYL’s impact on the community is?”
Madison: “I would say that CYL’s impact on the community is definitely positive. I like to believe that we leave a mark wherever we go. When we do a project or volunteer we are efficient, thorough, and enthusiastic. We make the jobs easier for the other non-profit leaders while also connecting with the people we are volunteering for.”
Hillie: “How would you say CYL affects and defines you?”
Madison: “CYL has been one of the greatest and most impactful changes in my life. Through CYL I have become a more positive and courageous person. I have learned a large amount on communication and the true value of a person in this world. I am able to use the positive in my life, to help others see the positive in theirs.”
Hillie: “In your words, why should people support and give to CYL?”
Madison: “People should support and give to CYL because it not only helps the non-profits we are volunteering for, but it also helps the students. It helps students find their place in life.”
Hillie: “Why are you a better person for being a part of CYL?”
Madison: “I am a better person for being a part of CYL because I have become a compassionate, kind, patient, and courageous person. Which has been able to help me in wide areas of my life; everyday work and school life as well.”
By CYL Volunteer Writer & Staff: Hillie Broomfield
CYL “helps students find their place in life.”
Help us continue to develop leaders like Maddy and give to our Year End Campaign. Our goal is $25,000
If Maddy’s interview didn’t move you to give, you can read more about our Young Leaders on our Adventure Stories blog, find pictures on Facebook, or watch this video.
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Are you moved by student stories like Maddy’s? DONATE to keep CYL available to our future generation! Feel free to email us with specific questions.
