Heidi entered care when she was 1 and again when she was 10 years old. She has spent eight years of her life in foster care. She was adopted when she was 16 by her foster mother, but has had to overcome many obstacles to get where she is today. She has been an active member of Wisconsin's Youth Advisory Council for two years, serving as its president for one term.

Her motivation to make a difference comes from her experiences while in care: separation from her siblings, little support from the child welfare system and watching a brother, sister and foster sibling fall through the cracks. Heidi loves to travel, play with her dogs, is an avid reader, and enjoys spending time with her family. She currently attends Edgewood College and is working towards a Psychology and Nursing Degree.

State(s)
Wisconsin
Team(s) or Cohort(s)
2009 Outstanding Young Leaders