TESTIMONIALS
Real Stories, Real Impact: Hear How Choices Matter Has Changed Lives
At Choices Matter, we believe that every decision shapes your future. Our program has inspired countless young people to make healthier, more empowered choices—and their stories speak for themselves. Below, you’ll find powerful testimonials from individuals who’ve experienced the life-changing impact of Choices Matter. These are real voices, sharing real results. We are proud to be part of their journey, and we know that with the right guidance, anyone can create a brighter, healthier future.
Ethan and his crew were great! The message hit home and was mostly well-received by our kids.
We had several of our kids that we knew had trauma stop in and speak with him and our counselors throughout the day. That is good. We had several kids that were not on our radar stop in as well to talk and process. That is an absolute win, in my opinion!
Your crew was professional and very respectful of our time. I would absolutely recommend Ethan to other local schools. Thank you so much for the opportunity to work with Choices Matter.
At some point, I would not mind discussing other presentations or resources that may be available.
Thank you again.
-Ashland, ME District School
I just wanted to say thank you for coming to my son’s school to speak.
He has not stopped talking about it and how cool it was to meet you. I believe you made an impact on his life and he will be safer for it!
Shannon, Aztec High School
There are no words to describe how wonderful our day at school was yesterday.
David was an outstanding speaker – his humor, music, honesty, was all spot on.
Teachers were telling me this morning that yesterday was one of the best experiences in their 20 years of teaching. The students were still talking about it today, we have been able to have conversations about forgiveness, determination, will power, and decision making.
We look forward to working with you all in the future. We can not thank you all enough, please send our sincerest gratitude to your speakers, activity organizers and your sponsors.
Holly, Lisbon, ME
I just wanted to tell you that the presentation was GREAT!!!!!
Ethan’s presentation was powerful and moving without being too overwhelming. Jacob and JJ were a great crew to work with! I appreciate your guidance as we decided what grades to include, and it was definitely something that our 7/8 middle school students were prepared to hear.
Thank you for all of your help. It was a well-oiled machine and everything went smoothly.
Thank you!
Nancy, Oxford, VT
I just wanted to follow-up and share that I thought Ethan was a fantastic speaker with a great eye-opening message for our students. His passion to express to the students the importance of making the right choices is very apparent.
Thanks again for attending our school
Doug, Switz, IN
I wanted to reach out an thank everyone for their contributions to our pre-prom safe driving event. I know it was a lot to take out of your already busy days, but I think it made a huge impact on the kids, and in the event, gave them the information to make safe choices.
I don’t think we always get to see the impact of what we do, but the fact that all our kids had a fun night, and made it home safely, is in large part because of all of you. I look forward to making this a yearly tradition, and hope you can join us next year. Thank you again for keeping our kids safe, and for making Nonnewaug a great place to be.
Mike, Woodbury, CT

Incredibly grateful and inspired after spending some time with Paralympian, Author, Coach, Teacher, and Incredible Human, Steve Emt.
There has been so much positive feedback from students! Our sophomore and junior classes participated in Choices Matter’s interactive and riveting presentation series. One student shared this message:
“Hi, Steve! I am one of the kids from the school you were at today and I just wanted to thank you for your time. Your perspective is very inspirational, especially with the things I’ve been going through–I really needed that. You’re such a strong individual and I appreciate people like you who are willing to go above and beyond for others; some people in this building probably really needed this today. Your story is beautiful despite the battle; thank you again.”
Erin, Mrs. Maine, Poland, ME