Name: Allison Engelman
Hometown: Diller, Nebraska
Affiliated Fund: Diller Community Foundation Fund
School: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
What do you love about your community? What are some of its greatest assets?
I love how close-knit the community is. I know almost everyone I see in Diller and everyone is super friendly and will gladly have a conversation with you. I think the people of Diller are one of its greatest assets. I honestly haven’t been to a community that felt as close-knit as Diller. I also think our various small and large businesses are a huge asset.
What made you want to pursue an NCF Hometown Internship?
I have heard really great things about the internship from some of Diller’s past Hometown Interns. It is also a great opportunity for me to get a variety of job experiences. I also want to better my interpersonal skills and interacting and working with community members is a great way to do that.
What projects are you working on this summer?
This summer I will be working on putting together and hosting a serviceship camp for youth from Diller. We are also working on gathering information about a Big Give event.
What do you hope to learn or experience?
I hope to learn more about community improvement by working with my supervisors and fellow intern. I also want to interact with other residents, not only as a part of our community but as Diller’s Hometown Intern.
How would you describe the opportunity so far?
This experience so far has been very fun and eye-opening. I love getting to come into the office every day and work with Jadyn. It is also very interesting to see the Diller Community Foundation Fund from an inside point of view.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your hometown?
My hope for Diller is that it continues to be a welcoming place to everyone. Whether you are moving from a completely different state or are returning to your hometown, I hope Diller continues to welcome new people while still holding true to our small-town values.
What are you looking for in a place to call home?
I want to live somewhere where everyone knows everyone. Somewhere where people feel safe and comfortable talking to their neighbors. I also want somewhere with a great school district for my future children and my teaching career.
Could you see yourself living in Greater Nebraska in the future?
Yes, I could absolutely see myself living in Greater Nebraska after I graduate college. I love the small-town feel and almost anywhere in rural Nebraska can offer that. I also plan on being an Ag teacher and FFA advisor at a high school in rural Nebraska.
