Name: Ashley Caballero-Lazaro
Hometown: Neligh, NE
Affiliated Fund: Neligh Area Community Fund
School: University of Nebraska-Lincoln
What does it feel like to be back in your hometown this summer?
Being back in my hometown this summer feels really grounding. College can get busy fast, so coming home reminds me who I am and where I come from. I’ve loved reconnecting with the people I’ve known forever and grew up with as well as appreciating the little aspects in Neligh that I didn’t notice before. Being back home with the people who share the same values as me and love our community just as much, has given me the motivation to make a difference and so much excitement for what the future of Neligh holds.
What are some of your hometown’s greatest assets?
As someone from Neligh, some of our town’s greatest assets are its strong sense of community and how safe and welcoming it feels. We also have the Neligh Mill State Historic Site, which highlights our local history and gives the town a unique identity. The nearby Elkhorn River offers outdoor recreation like swimming, fishing, and relaxing scenery. Our school, local events, and the supportive environment for students and families make it a great place to grow up and stay connected.
What about the NCF Internship experience stands out to you so far? Why?
What stands out most to me about the NCF Internship so far is how intentional it is about connecting many young people back to their communities. It’s not just about work experience, it’s about helping us see that we can make an impact where we come from. I also really appreciate getting to meet people from different Nebraska communities who are just as passionate about creating opportunities and making rural places stronger.
Everyone has gifts and talents to share. What do you hope to share with your hometown this summer?
This summer, I hope to share my positivity, time, and willingness to help with the Neligh community. Growing up in a small town has taught me how important it is to support the people around you, and I want to give that same support back. Whether it’s helping at local events, volunteering, encouraging younger kids, or simply showing up for others, I want to make a positive impact. I think one of the greatest things someone can share with their hometown is genuine care for the community and the people in it. Even small actions can help make others feel valued and connected.
What should older adults know about your generation of Nebraskans?
I think older adults should know that our generation really does care about our community, making valuable connections, and making a difference. We may do things differently or communicate differently, but we still value relationships and purpose. A lot of young Nebraskans want to stay connected to their roots but along with that we also want new opportunities, inclusivity, and spaces where we feel heard and supported.
How does belonging play a role in your attachment to your hometown?
Belonging is a huge part of why I love Neligh. It’s comforting knowing people genuinely care about each other here. Whether it’s school events, local businesses, or just seeing familiar faces around town, it makes life feel more meaningful and gives the “at home” feeling. Being part of a close community gives me a sense of purpose and reminds me that home is about people, not just a place.
What are your hopes and dreams for the future of your community?
As someone from Neligh, my hopes for the future are that the community keeps growing while still staying close-knit and safe. I’d like to see more opportunities for young people so they don’t feel like they have to leave right away, whether that’s more local jobs, activities, or small businesses. I also hope places like the Neligh Mill State Historic Site continue to be preserved and supported, since they help keep our history alive. Overall, I want the town to stay welcoming while slowly improving and adapting for future generations.
What are you looking for in a place to call home?
When I think about a place to call home, I look for somewhere that feels welcoming, supportive, and connected. I want to live in a community where people care about one another and where relationships matter. Having opportunities to grow personally and professionally is important to me, but so is feeling safe and involved. I want a place where I can build meaningful connections, give back to the community, and eventually raise a family surrounded by strong values. To me, home is less about the size of the town and more about the people who make you feel like you belong.
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, it would include building a meaningful career while staying connected to a close community. I’d want to live somewhere that offers opportunities for young people, supports local businesses, and encourages involvement within the community. I picture myself giving back through leadership, volunteering, and helping create a positive environment for others. I also hope Greater Nebraska continues growing in ways that keep small-town values while still bringing new opportunities and ideas. The ideal future is one where young people can succeed, feel supported, and still enjoy the sense of belonging that makes Nebraska special.
What’s a piece of advice you have for older generations of Nebraskans?
A piece of advice I have for older generations of Nebraskans is to believe in us and support us. We care deeply about the future of our communities, especially in the places we will call home someday. Many of our strongest values come from older generations, and we want to carry those forward. I know incredible young leaders who will make a lasting impact if given the chance. We just need encouragement, trust, and a willingness to listen, because the future will soon be in our hands.
