What is the best thing about living in your community?
The people in Pender are incredible. When they put their minds to a project, they find ways to collaborate to make it become a reality. There are so many generous, future-minded people here that understand the importance of making investments in our community to make it a place that people will want to return to and raise their families.
Did you always plan to return to Greater Nebraska? If not, what changed your mind?
Yes, we always dreamed of returning to a small community. We were able to get some great work experiences while living in Fremont and Gretna, but it never quite felt like home to us. After the birth of our first child, we decided it was time to make that move to a small community where we would know our neighbors and be close to family. It’s been a great decision for us!
For you personally, what has been the most valuable part about moving to your community?
There have been a lot of valuable things about moving here, but one of the most important ones is impact. I think becoming a parent makes you think more about how you can make the world a better place for your kids to live. For me, setting that example through the work in the community and on our Fund Advisory Committee helps achieve that dream. And the cool part is in a small town, it’s easier to see that progress and impact happen right in front of your eyes.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about returning to Greater Nebraska?
Be ready to roll up your sleeves to help make things happen! But along the way, you will meet some amazing people that truly care about you, your family and the work you are doing to make your little corner of the world a better place. It’s an exciting and fun time to be in rural Nebraska!
What drew you to the NCF network?
Someone asked me to help with our local Fund Advisory Committee when we first moved here. I really didn’t know for sure what I was getting into, but what I’ve found is this network of incredible people that work for NCF or are connected to NCF via a local Fund Advisory Committee. We are all like-minded people that want the best for our communities and everyone is determined to find ways to make it happen. The positivity and idea-generation that occurs when we are together is pretty incredible. It’s fun to bring that energy back to our hometown!
