Teen-ager awarded as true hero for her community involvement

   Catalina Vicente is a true hero.

   She received that designation when she was presented with the True Hero Award at the Native American Substance Abuse and Tobacco Prevention Summit on Oct. 20.

   Vicente is the youth coordinator for two local health department prevention programs, TUPAC and Socorro Teens Against Tobacco. The 2003 graduate of Socorro High School has been working in the programs since 1996.

   "She was recognized for her long-term work with the program," said Laura Fazio, TUPAC coordinator, and for her activities as an advocate for tobacco prevention.

   Vicente said her peers do listen when she speaks out against substance abuse and tobocco use.

   "I've always pretty much been respected for what I had to say," said said.

   She said she especially enjoys working in the middle school.

   "They want to know when they can work for the program," she said. And, Vicente said, she knows that she's having an impact on lives.

   "A lot of times I have students coming up to me and saying thanks," she said. "I don't always know what they're thanking me for, but I have a pretty good idea and I know I made a difference. I think the kids really appreciate peer-to-peer mentors."

   Vicente hopes to continue on in a field where she can continue helping people.

   "I may go to NMSU and pursue a degree in social work," she said. "I really like what I do and want to keep doing something like it."