Meet Yleana Escobar

Nominated by Greg Nguyen.

Yleana has single-handedly started a veterinary science academy in our high school. Lack of funds has not been a deterrent as she has procured donations from different organizations, received support from parents of our students, and donated money out of her pocket to make sure that she covers the needs of animals. What is remarkable about Yleana is that she has worked for the past 15 years or more with animals. Prior to her dedication to the wonderful PreVet Program at our school, she was a wildlife rehabilitator at Wee Care Wildlife Center. I personally saw the hours she dedicated to rescuing pets and all type of wildlife after Hurricane Andrew devastated South Florida. I know of no better individual deserving of this award. Yleana not only dedicates her time to taking care of unwanted animals by helping place more than 200 pets this past year, she has also instilled an interest in community service in our students. Through her successful guidance our students have competed in numerous state-sponsored competitions, including our local Miami Dade County Fair, with several students winning prestigious awards and scholarships. Our school PreVet Program has grown from a small group of 25 students to a complete academy, which Yleana dedicates her whole day to. Since she started the program she has transformed the school into a caring place. The causes she supports are Pets in Distress and Forever Friends.