LIFT UP LONG ISLAND ​ began as a year long campaign to mobilize and empower hundreds of youth across Long Island to impact their communities on the one year anniversary of Hurrican Sandy. 250 students from dozens of schools across Long Island participated in the October 29, 2013 kick-off event at the International Soccer Academy in Smithtown, NY. Here they developed ideas designed to raise awareness and make a difference around topics such as homelessness, animal neglect, health & nutrition, environmental issues, and bully prevention. The keyote address was given by Julie Foudy, World Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist soccer star who successfully launched a venture of her own, the Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy. Now, LULI continues to offer opportunities for youth led social ventures with dedicated champions that facilitate students in their development of solutions that have impact in their communities. For more information visit us at www.liftupli.org.