In a powerful stand against one of the leading causes of death for young people in the United States, 17 local students were recently honored for their commitment to road safety. The
The program arrives at a critical time. Citing research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which identifies motor vehicle crashes as a primary threat to teen safety, these students chose to turn statistics into action. By accepting the mantle of leadership, the ambassadors worked to bridge the gap between risk and responsibility.
Impact Through Education
Throughout the academic year, the 17 ambassadors engaged their peers through high-impact social media campaigns and town hall-style meetings held at schools across the region. Their mission was clear: educate young drivers on the life-saving importance of safe behavior behind the wheel.
To date, the SafeLIGHT Foundations reach has been significant:
$138,000 in total scholarships awarded to date.
Over 50 teens empowered through the program.
Partnerships with 21 Chicagoland area high schools.
The Class of 2026
The most recent cohort represented a diverse cross-section of nine area institutions, including Southland College Prep, Whitney Young, Mother McAuley, Marist, Brother Rice, Morgan Park, Lyons Township, and the Illinois Mathematics & Science Academy.
In recognition of their advocacy and successful completion of the program, each student received a $2,500 college scholarship. these awards were made possible through the support of program sponsors Donate Life Illinois and Gift of Hope, along with the Illinois Secretary of States Office, which remains a staunch advocate for teen driver safety.
A Legacy of Safety
The SafeLIGHT Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing preventable road tragedies. As the 2025-26 class concludes their term, the foundation is already looking toward the future.
Applications for the upcoming program year are now open. Interested students who wish to make a difference in their communities can find eligibility requirements and application details at safelightfoundation.com.
The 2025-26 Teen Ambassador Graduates:
Leilani Barnes, Alina Chavez, Courtney Clemons, Brianna Coleman, Anna Condron, Bisola Disu, Erin Eberhardt, Izabella Kutyla Enriquez, Amouri Fisher, Alayna Glispie, Kara Grant, Chaz Christian Knight, Jordan Lee, Anyla Martin, Loren Rounds, Rayteng Skotmyr, and Genesis Watts.