What are you passionate about, and how do you use your voice/talents to make a difference?
I have a strong passion for giving back to my community in any way possible. I was raised by parents who volunteered their time, and I always admired that. Some of my earliest memories include time spent volunteering at RiverCade and later helping with the Mardi Gras show with the Krewe de Charlie Sioux as I grew older. Nothing is better than seeing people smile thanks to something you helped put together.
As for how I make a difference, I try to get involved in things that I believe will have a positive impact on someone’s life. My job at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Siouxland is a perfect fit, as I get to see the effect of my work on a day-to-day basis. I also enjoy attending community events that bring joy to people. I have a passion for athletics, so being part of so many of the athletic events in Siouxland is fun. It’s great seeing the fans enjoying their experiences at games and even the athletes themselves being able to live in the moment and have fun.
What is your vision for the future of Siouxland?
Our community has so much more to offer than most give it credit for. I would love to see continued growth and opportunities, especially for families. My vision for Siouxland is to return to basics and allow families to spend quality time together. The addition of biking trails and other leisure activities is excellent, as they come with minimal costs, making them accessible to everyone.
I would also like to see support for our locally owned businesses. This includes small shops, restaurants/breweries, as well as many other amenities that we are fortunate to have in our community. Showing support and keeping our money in Siouxland is crucial for our community to thrive.
What are you doing to make that happen?
My family is big on attending community events, especially those that include crafts for our kids to enjoy. I really enjoy advocating for others about the different offerings around town, whether they are standalone events or businesses doing great work.
How can people help you make that happen?
Show up. Support local. The rise of social media has been such a blessing to help get the word out about different events around town, and far too often, you hear people say they thought about stopping out somewhere and just didn’t make it happen. All I ask is that you give things a try. If something looks interesting in the area, give it a shot!
What quote inspires you?
“People helping people, it’s powerful stuff.” And “Whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right.”
The funny thing is, I got the first one from the movie Wedding Crashers and the second from Family Guy, but they hold true.
Work: Boys & Girls Clubs of Siouxland
Title: Vice President
Part time:
Co-host for Your Sports Show
PA Announcer for the Sioux City Musketeers & Sioux City Bandits
Head Statistician for the NAIA Women’s Volleyball and Women’s Basketball national tournaments held in Sioux City
Volunteer organizations:
President of the Rotary Club of Sioux City
Chairperson of the ISU Extension and Outreach – Woodbury County council
Board member for 100+ Men and Women Who Care: Siouxland Chapter
Board member for Siouxland Philanthropy
Board member at large for Premier Credit Union
