Press
YAWE Joins Epilepsy Alliance America!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2025
Young Adults with Epilepsy (YAWE) Unanimously Voted into Epilepsy Alliance America, Expanding National Collaboration and ReachMonterey, CA — Young Adults with Epilepsy (YAWE) is proud to announce its unanimous approval as the newest member of Epilepsy Alliance America, a leading national coalition Epilepsy Alliance America is comprised of independent, mission-driven organizations spanning 15 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, collectively serving hundreds of thousands of individuals and families affected by epilepsy. By joining this network, YAWE strengthens its ability to extend specialized support—including peer-led groups, educational programming, and advocacy—to a broader community of young adults nationwide.“We are honored to join Epilepsy Alliance America and stand alongside organizations that are equally passionate about improving lives,” said Wendy Steel, Executive Director and Founder of YAWE. “This partnership enables us to reach and empower more young adults — sharing tools and hope not only in our region, but through the expansive Alliance network.”“'We are thrilled to welcome YAWE into Epilepsy Alliance America. Their innovative focus on young adult support fills a critical gap and enhances the strength of our national community.”— Lisa Gallipoli, Executive Director, Epilepsy Alliance AmericaFounded in 2023, YAWE has grown rapidly, offering peer-led programs, digital workshops, and national advocacy. Through membership in Epilepsy Alliance America, YAWE will collaborate with partner chapters to share best practices, co-develop programming, and strengthen service delivery — enhancing holistic support available to those navigating epilepsy, healthcare, education, and employment.
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For more information about YAWE’s programs and initiatives, visit www.youngadultswithepilepsy.org.
About Young Adults with Epilepsy (YAWE)
YAWE is a nonprofit organization founded in 2023, dedicated to empowering young adults living with epilepsy through peer support, education, advocacy, and community-building.About Epilepsy Alliance AmericaEpilepsy Alliance America is a national collaboration of independent, community-based epilepsy organizations operating in 15 states and Puerto Rico, collectively serving hundreds of thousands affected by epilepsy. The Network works to improve quality of life through direct services, education, advocacy, and training.
Contact:Wendy Steel, President & FounderYoung Adults with Epilepsy
Young Adults with Epilepsy Founder Featured in the Carmel Pine Cone
Wendy Steel shares her story with the Features Editor
YAWE Releases 2024 Impact Report
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2025
Monterey, California
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Young Adults With Epilepsy Releases 2024 Impact Report
Empowering a global community through peer support, digital storytelling, and grassroots growth
Young Adults With Epilepsy (YAWE), based in Monterey, California, proudly shares its 2024 Impact Report, highlighting a year of rapid growth, meaningful connection, and bold steps forward in advocacy, mental health, and peer support for young adults living with epilepsy.
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In just one year, YAWE made remarkable strides in deepening its reach and impact:
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91% of peer support group participants reported feeling more understood and heard.
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$130,000 in grants secured to fund programs directly benefiting young adults with epilepsy.
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83.7% of YAWE’s budget was dedicated to programs supporting young adults.
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The “Carpe Seizen” podcast ranked in the top 20% of all Spotify podcasts globally.
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300,000+ views across YAWE’s social channels in 2024—with momentum to triple engagement in 2025.
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A growing global community, with followers and peer engagement from over 30 countries.
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YAWE also launched and hosted signature events that brought the community together in powerful ways—including the Walk 4 Epilepsy, a Mental Health Symposium, and the Tee Off for Epilepsy Golf Fundraiser.
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Looking ahead to 2025, YAWE has already:
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Launched a Spanish-language peer support group
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Transformed monthly workshops into on-demand video resources
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Scheduled two major upcoming events: the Tides of Hope Gala (July 5) and the 3rd Annual Walk 4 Epilepsy Monterey (September 13)
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“This report reflects more than numbers—it reflects stories, connections, and lives changed,” said Wendy Steel, Founder and Executive Director. “We are building a future where young adults with epilepsy feel seen, supported, and empowered.”
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Read the full 2024 Impact Report
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About Young Adults With Epilepsy
Young Adults With Epilepsy (YAWE) is a nonprofit based in Monterey, California. Its mission is to foster resilience and independence in young adults living with epilepsy. Through peer support, digital content, advocacy, and education, YAWE is creating a stigma-free space where young adults can connect, grow, and thrive.
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Media Contact:
Jenna Dalton
Young Adults With Epilepsy
jenna@yawecc.org
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Executive Contact:
Wendy Steel
Executive Director, Young Adults With Epilepsy
wendy@yawecc.org
Meeting with Congressman Jimmy Panetta
Wendy Steel, Executive Director met with Jimmy Panetta, Congressman from the 19th District of California and provided background on Seizure First Aid, YAWE's mission and our desire to have him join the Epilepsy Caucus. We are delighted that he agreed to join!
YAWE and Wendy's Story featured in Epilepsy Stories BookÂ
Catalyst Pharmaceuticals shared Wendy's story on what moved her to launch Young Adults with Epilepsy.
Monterey Herald "Health Matters" Raises Purple Day Awareness
Young Adults With Epilepsy would like to thank Health Matters for featuring our press release about the significance of Purple Day! Health Matters is a publication that is distributed in local hospitals and clinics.
