In Schools Where YOVASO Already Exists,

It Is Making Quite An Impact!

Here's what schools around the state are saying about YOVASO:

"YOVASO About Traffic Safety is the best traffic safety awareness program I have ever encountered. MADD & SADD are great programs, but YOVASO encompasses all the aspects of why our teens are dying in traffic crashes. As a family member to three young persons killed in traffic crashes and a Deputy Sheriff, I am proud to be coordinating YOVASO at Tunstall High School. Empowering young people to talk with their peers, getting involved, and generally using their own power of persuasion has given new insight to prevention of traffic crashes.”

-Harris Silverman, Tunstall High School, Pittsylvania County, Va.

"I have been working with the YOVASO program for at least six years and with the Franklin County High School (FCHS) YOVASO Club for four years. In this time, I have found students who are very passionate about traffic safety and seat belt usage. I have been a Trooper for over 36 years and have investigated many crashes involving young people. I have now found there is a group who wants to put a stop to these crashes and save lives. The FCHS YOVASO Club is thriving with over 80 members. I could not be prouder or more humbled to be associated with such a great bunch of students. This club, with all new members, has worked very, very hard during the 2007 'Save Your Tail-Gate, Buckle Up' Campaign. All of FCHS, including teachers, got behind the club to make everyone aware of the importance of seat belt usage. This not only impacted the students, but also the community at large. As a State Trooper and as chairman of the YOVASO Committee, I see only a great future in life saving efforts and traffic safety for YOVASO."

-Master Trooper J. Timothy Harris, Franklin County High School

"After participating in the 'Save Your Tail-Gate, Buckle Up' Campaign this fall, the use of seat belts among our students increased 10% in just 3 weeks! YOVASO also provided games, personnel, and lots of support at our after prom party last spring which the students thoroughly enjoyed! And, the YOVASO training program gave our club guidance on how to proceed with new ideas for our club to promote safe driving."

-Carole Skelly, Jefferson Forest High School, Bedford County

"YOVASO gives my students a vehicle to save lives. One thing is certain: if we do nothing, we get more of the same. If we speak out, we can effect a change."

-Dee Sheffer, Lord Botetourt High School, Botetourt County

"When we first heard about YOVASO, I thought that it would be too hard to be associated with an organization that is so far away from the Tidewater area. I quickly found this did not make a difference. The people have been very helpful in providing current information, ideas, as well as incentives for students in all of our activities. YOVASO is all about student safety and saving lives. We are proud to be associated with this group."

-Kathy Pitt, Woodrow Wilson High School, Portsmouth