Get to Know Our Staff
For those of you who have not yet had the chance to meet Michael DeLeon or hear him speak in person, you’re missing out. We sat down with Michael to learn a bit more about the work he does as Director of Youth Outreach and School Programs at Victoria’s Voice.
What is the most rewarding part of the work you do?
When I receive direct messages from kids, from all over the country, telling me how much these programs have meant to them, how much they have influenced them, it drives me harder to reach even more kids. When kids tell me and write to me about how much Victoria means to them, it’s inspiring. They’ve never met Victoria, they’ve never met the Siegel Family, yet they feel they know them through the Victoria’s Voice diary. It’s life changing, and it inspires me to be the positive change in the lives of youth all over this world. It’s truly a purpose fulfilled.
What inspired you to do what you do?
People ask me why I do what I do and why I do it to the extreme that I do. The simple answer is PURPOSE! The journey I have been on is one very few would ever choose or have endured. The pain and anguish I brought to others, to my family, because of my past addiction is really unspeakable. But I’ve got to speak about it so that it doesn’t happen to anyone else.
People see horrific things happening in our world and say, “Someone should do something about this!” “Exactly,” I say. “But WHO? Who will solve this problem?” Well, when I look in the mirror, I know who that someone should be. Who better?
I truly believe that God creates us for a purpose. I believe that finding that purpose is the meaning of life. I believe this is my purpose: Educating and empowering kids to live their best lives, to live the healthiest and happiest lives they can possibly live. They need to know what risks they face. They need to know what drugs and alcohol can do to their lives. They to know how to live their lives the very best way without the pitfalls I endured, and it’s up to me to make that happen. I am a living, cautionary tale. I can be the guide and navigation story to better prepare them for what they will face.
What brought you to Victoria’s Voice?
When I met David and Jackie Siegel, and I saw their passion and commitment to the very issue I had been fighting for over the last 15 years, I knew this was their purpose as well. I wanted to align with Victoria’s Voice Foundation so that my youth prevention organization, Steered Straight, could have a dedicated and equal partner in this purpose. We’ve reached millions of youth and literally saved thousands of lives. This purpose will outlive us and serve as a legacy to our mutual purpose.
“[Michael’s] unique ability to capture students’ attention and inspire them to think critically about their choices is a gift that all students should experience. Michael’s presentation is not only informative but also transformative, leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.” – Mike Keaffaber, Superintendent, MSD of Wabash Schools
“…the students were fully engaged for the full hour and a half that Michael spoke to them. The entire staff, students, and administrators stood for a round of applause at the end of the presentation and several students crowded the front of the auditorium to speak to Michael and get photos with him. My administrators applauded his message and his ability to engage students… .” – Blair Cox, School Counselor, Malvern High School
