LFS Inspirational Story:

"It's Exciting to Help Change Lives"
An empty-nester finds not just the training and knowledge she needs, but also joy and purpose through AmeriCorps
By Susan Kruse, AmeriCorps Member

Empty nest, 27 years a full-time mother and entrepreneur, part-time assistant preschool teacher, avid quilt designer and quilter. That pretty much described who I was August 2006. I was looking for an entry back into the career force and feeling quite disadvantaged. I was armed only with my 30-year old home economics bachelor's degree and lots of volunteer experience, so the prospects of landing a career seemed daunting in Southeast rural Nebraska.

I had not heard of AmeriCorps until I applied for the AmeriCorps Mentoring Specialist position in 2006, but I have learned so much in the past three months. The training sessions have increased my knowledge and have helped to bolster my self confidence. The vast amount of knowledge and resources available from the AmeriCorps Kickoff sessions, LFS' Essential Learning online, Conflict Resolution training, Cultural Competency Training, and the awesome opportunity to go to Phoenix, AZ for the LEARNS Institute on mentoring is incredible and very much appreciated. All have definitely helped prepare me to serve as a mentoring specialist.

I am still finding there is much to learn in this position, but I am very grateful for the team approach and all those who are patient with me in this process. I am hopeful and setting goals to find quality mentors to match with youth in our area.

It is evident when visiting school guidance personal and other organizations striving to provide positive experiences for our youth that programs like the 4-County Mentoring Program are very much needed. For all we do, there is still more that needs to be done. It's exciting to help change the lives of youth. During the next two years of service, I hope to make more people aware of how service through AmeriCorps can be a tremendous opportunity to positively impact our communities.