Continue to tell your story and share your wisdom. The younger generations need to hear, and we learn best from people who have gone through life already. But also listen to what we have to say as well. We bring new perspectives and ideas that you may never have thought of. We can accomplish so much if we work together and learn from one another.
What does it feel like to be back in your hometown this summer?
It is exciting knowing that I can make a bigger impact than I have already and give back to a community that has supported me my whole life. I feel grateful to have a town with such great people and businesses that have already made Syracuse a great place to live.
What are some of your hometown’s greatest assets?
Three great assets of my hometown are its involvement, infrastructure, and pride. We have very involved members through boards, the school, churches, and fundraisers. In addition, there are many structures that make up the town of Syracuse, and we are very proud of them. For example, our park, sports complex, and pool are some recreational areas in our community. Lastly, we take pride in our town’s values, school, history, and appearance.
People are also reading…
What about the NCF Internship experience stands out to you so far? Why?
I feel this internship isn’t like others because it allows me to come up with ideas to improve my community creatively. I have a significant amount of freedom compared to other jobs to make what I want of this internship. It’s also unique that I am able to do this internship in my own hometown. I have been a part of my hometown for my whole life, so I can continue to understand the dynamics of Syracuse and improve the best way I can.
Everyone has gifts and talents to share. What do you hope to share with your hometown this summer?
I want to share my love of giving back to my hometown. I want the members of my community to know that I am doing this internship out of love and appreciation for them. I also want to share my skills of leadership and connection by advocating for community projects and ideas.
What should older adults know about your generation of Nebraskans?
Older generations should know that we value community just as much as their generation does. We are willing to listen to and take advice to better understand and improve our towns. We still appreciate the traditions and connections that small towns are founded on and want to continue to carry this forward with new ideas.
How does belonging play a role in your attachment to your hometown?
Belonging plays a critical role in my attachment to my hometown. I felt I belonged in my school with my classmates, teachers, and sports or clubs. If you don’t feel like you belong, that doesn’t create a sense of community in your town. The reason I want to go back home all the time is because of the people and community that made it so memorable and who supported me through my time at Syracuse. They keep up with me even after I left for college. This is belonging, and I want to create this experience for everyone within our town in Syracuse.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your community?
I hope to continue to build a community of the assets I established earlier: pride, infrastructure, and involvement. I want my community to welcome visitors with open arms and be open-minded about new people, projects, and ideas around town. I also want to continue to build a sense of belonging and pride that runs deep through our traditions and history.
What are you looking for in a place to call home?
I am looking for a place with a strong sense of community, where people support one another and there is pride in the town we live in. I want a hometown that is safe, affordable, and has opportunities for businesses, kids, and families to thrive. It’s important to me to live in a town with a strong school system and in a vibrant community with many recreational activities to do, like a park and a pool. Lastly, I want to feel valued and connected and make a positive impact on the people and places around me.
If you were designing a future for yourself in Greater Nebraska, what would that look like?
If I were designing a future for myself in Greater Nebraska, I would want to find a tight-knit community where it is easy to create relationships and grow together. I feel Nebraska, as a state, is already a close community. I want to eventually have a family and find a small town that supports and suits us best. I want to excel in my career and enjoy being active in my community, whether through school, boards, or sports with my kids. I must maintain an active presence and continue to grow my town for future generations.
