Maddie Weiner and Hannah Yoselowitz, two juniors in the Kennedy High School Leadership Program are taking meaningful civic action by advocating for the passage of the Find It Early Act as part of their Leadership II civic-action project. 

The initiative is being guided by Leadership Program instructor Brad Seidman, who supports students in connecting classroom learning with real-world advocacy. 

The Find It Early Act aims to close existing insurance loopholes that prevent some high-risk patients from accessing certain breast cancer screenings. Through their project, the students are raising awareness about the importance of early detection and equitable access to preventive healthcare. 

To complement their legislative advocacy, the students partnered with the Mauer Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to breast health education with a focus on breast cancer prevention, early detection, risk reduction, and healthy lifestyle choices. An LCSW from Mount Sinai Health System also participated, providing additional professional insight and support. 

As part of this effort, the students organized and led educational workshops for female students during physical education classes on Jan. 12 and 13.  

The sessions provided age-appropriate information about breast health, empowered students with knowledge, and encouraged proactive conversations about wellness and prevention.