Connie Siskowski is helping young people who have to take care of an ill , disabled or aging family member . Through her nonprofit , the American Association of Caregiving Youth , Siskowski has provided assistance to more than 550 child caregivers in Palm Beach County , Florida . CNN asked Siskowski for her thoughts on being chosen as one of the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2012 . CNN : What was your reaction when you found out that you 'd been selected as a top 10 CNN Hero ? Connie Siskowski : It was awesome . I was so excited . We 've really been hoping that would happen . This meaningful opportunity will help us reach even more children and families , and get more support for the kids . ... It means the possibility of raising more awareness and being able to achieve our ultimate goal that no child should have to drop out of school because of caregiving responsibilities . CNN : What do you hope this recognition will mean to the American Association of Caregiving Youth ? Siskowski : I hope it will help people understand that the kids are a part of the health care delivery system and that they should be recognized . We 're not advocating that children should do this or be in this position , but they are . So we want to make it as safe as possible and arm them with the knowledge base that they need . ( This recognition ) will help us continue the path that we are taking , to provide continued and expanded services locally and to replicate our work in other parts of the United States . Right now we have affiliates with signed agreements in four states , and we 're talking with others . The model is to partner with existing nonprofits who would like to reach this population of children and who 'd like to make a difference in the lives of these kids , who are in situations through no fault of their own . CNN : How will you use the $ 50,000 award that you receive for being selected as a top 10 CNN Hero ? Siskowski : It will be solely used by our organization to fulfill its mission . We provide professional support to the children in school , out of school and at home . We provide tutoring ( and ) respite to give kids and families a break . We 've provided computer support . We do a home visit to link families to resources . We provide sponsored activities and transportation to and from them . We have a camp . So all these things work together to strengthen the child , to give them more confidence and the skills that they need to go on to become healthy , productive adults . We have lots in the hopper . We have so much to do ; we 've only scratched the surface . CNN : What do you want people to know most about your work ? Siskowski : It 's really a joy to see the lives of children and their families be transformed , and for them to know that someone out there cares about them . That it does n't take a whole lot to make a difference . And everyone can do it . The kids do n't have a voice , so they need somebody to be their voice , to be their advocate . ... When these children receive the recognition they so deserve , along with the academic and skills support they need , they are able to remain in school and have confidence in themselves and what they are doing so they can become healthy , productive adults . Plus , having the chance to participate in fun activities allows them to experience a bit of childhood otherwise lost . Read the full story on CNN Hero Connie Siskowski : Help for a 'hidden population ' of caregiving kids .
Connie Siskowski was named one of the top 10 CNN Heroes of 2012 . Her group supports young people who must provide health care for a loved one . Often , the extra responsibility keeps the children from reaching their potential . Who should be the CNN Hero of the Year ? Cast your vote now !