In the book of life, Elena Erlandson is writing chapters on how to stay healthy.
The 26-year-old is developing an online magazine with information on easy solutions for living a healthy lifestyle through food, fashion, fitness and relationships. She’s also involved in Jewish Family Services.
A graduate of CSU San Marcos, she said her biggest accomplishment is receiving the school’s Outstanding Community Service Learning award two years in a row.
“The people whose lives I’ve helped change mean the world to me,” she said. “There’s no better thing than knowing you helped change even one life for the better, and continue to see how your investment in someone else helped them achieve so much more.”
She finds her inspiration from one woman—Mary Strock.
“She is the Adolescent Parents Program coordinator at Jewish Family Services,” she said. “She gave me the loving support to remain courageous and positive throughout my journey.
“Even though the Mentoring Mothers Services lost funds, I feel as though someone like Mary should be recognized time and time again for her hard work, and compassion for these teen mothers.”
Advice for young people:
“This is the time in your life to do something positive and help your community. Involve yourself in something, anything! There are many organizations out there that are specific to your own interests, and aspirations. I have to say the best feeling is helping someone else who needs you. My mentee once called me a ‘gift,’ and I will never forget that for as long as I live.”
