What is an Early Intervention Advocate?
Early Intervention Advocates (EIAs) are college-educated, credentialed professionals appointed by Hamilton County Superior Court 1, uniquely qualified to support and guide at-risk youth and their families. Employed by Hamilton County, EIAs work within the Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program (HCYAP) and serve six school districts: Carmel, Fishers, Hamilton Heights, Sheridan, Noblesville, and Westfield. Under the leadership of HCYAP Director Tricia Akers, these advocates collaborate closely with local partners to provide tailored, community-centered support for youth facing challenging life circumstances.
Each EIA is deeply embedded in their respective community, drawing on their extensive training and expertise to build relationships and design individualized support plans for at-risk youth. They work directly with families to address specific challenges and help young people develop strengths, skills, and resilience. EIAs take a strengths-based, compassionate approach, developing plans that are voluntary, confidential, and entirely free to families.
Youth are referred to an EIA through local sources such as school counselors, the Prosecutor’s Office, law enforcement, the Department of Child Services (DCS), therapists, and pediatricians, as well as self-referrals from families. For referrals that come through the Prosecutor’s Office, often for minor offenses like truancy or incorrigibility, EIAs may introduce behavior contracts to help youth avoid further involvement in the legal system. By connecting families with essential resources and providing ongoing support, EIAs help youth achieve lasting, positive change. If a family declines or a plan is unsuccessful, the case may be returned to the Prosecutor’s Office as a last resort.
Beyond individual support, EIAs play a critical role in maintaining and strengthening partnerships with local organizations—schools, businesses, volunteers, donors, and service agencies. These connections allow EIAs to provide youth with a robust support network and essential services, often creating new resources when necessary. Their efforts are guided by the principle of “whatever it takes” to ensure youth and families receive the support they need to succeed.
As appointed Hamilton County employees, EIAs bring their specialized training and expertise to the role, with a commitment to helping youth thrive. They are equipped with the knowledge, experience, and dedication needed to make a real impact on the lives of Hamilton County’s young people. By working alongside families and empowering them to take ownership of their progress, EIAs build stronger, more resilient communities and create pathways for brighter futures.
Lisa Samuels
Languages: English
Lisa’s journey in the Sheridan community is a testament to her dedication to both education and service. After moving to Sheridan in 1992, where her husband grew up, she quickly became a part of the fabric of the community. Her deep involvement began when her son started kindergarten in 1998. Lisa joined the Sheridan Community School District, initially working at the elementary school as an instructional assistant. Her passion for supporting students and helping them thrive led her to take on multiple roles over the next 17 years. She served as the elementary school librarian, then transitioned to the middle school librarian. Ultimately, she became the middle school secretary, providing administrative support and helping ensure the smooth running of the school.
In 2015, Lisa’s extensive experience in education and her volunteer work across the community made her the perfect candidate when the school superintendent approached her to become the Early Intervention Advocate for the newly established Sheridan Youth Assistance Program. In this position, Lisa was able to bring together her experience working with students and her passion for early intervention and community support.
Lisa’s move into this role was a natural transition after years of active volunteering. She had already built a strong reputation through her involvement in numerous community service projects. She volunteered with the PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization), coached youth athletics, and contributed to the Sheridan Public Library Board of Directors. Her commitment to the well-being of Sheridan’s youth extended to founding a school food pantry and a weekend backsack program, ensuring that students had access to nutritious food even outside of school. She also participated in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), served on the United Way committee, and was an active member of the West Point Parent Club. Through these roles, Lisa touched the lives of countless students and families, always with a focus on providing support, guidance, and opportunities for growth.
Her work, whether in the classroom, the library, or through community initiatives, has always been grounded in her belief in the power of early intervention, education, and community. She has consistently been a source of stability and kindness for both students and families, ensuring that the Sheridan community remains a place where every child has the opportunity to succeed.