When most people move to a new city, they might try to forge friendships at work, school, maybe the local coffee shop or bar.

Not so for Analiese Alexander.

The 17-year-old moved to Maricopa’s Rancho El Dorado neighborhood from Michigan in 2022. As a new resident and a junior in ASU Preparatory Academy’s online Khan World School, she felt disconnected and isolated in her new city.

“I just really wanted to see how I could get more involved in the community and make some friends, especially because I’m naturally very introverted,” she told InMaricopa .

That led her to find community through volunteer work, which in turn has earned Analiese more than a dozen awards and honors before she can even vote.

Next week, she’s bringing home the Inspired Youth Leadership Award, part of the 22nd

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