Speaker Eddie Cortes brings message of hope and resilience

LIBERTY- Funded by county opioid settlement funds, Sullivan 180 recently presented motivational speaker Eddie Cortes to Sullivan County schools, engaging close to 1,250 middle and high school students from the Liberty, Monticello, and Sullivan West school districts. Cortes shared his personal story and delivered a message of hope, resilience, and the importance of believing in themselves. Sullivan 180 intentionally focused the initiative on middle and high school students, recognizing that adolescence is a time when young people face increasing social, emotional, and mental health challenges. Throughout his presentations, Cortes encouraged students to embrace challenges rather than be defined by them; believe in their own abilities and recognize that their potential is limitless. His central message reminded students that they are worthy of having and chasing their most “epic dreams.” Cortes encouraged students to think beyond their current circumstances and consider what is possible f