I wasn’t entirely sure what I was getting into when I signed up to work on the Let’s Move! Outside initiative and assist the Community Coordinator at the YMCA in Austin. However, it sounded like something I would enjoy because I am passionate about working with kids and helping them find meaning in a world that can be hard to see where you fit in. In the first two weeks working as an AmeriCorps member, I learned more than I thought was possible in that amount of time. I was exposed to the non-profit world, and I saw just how passionate everyone in this field really is about what they are doing to make a difference. If I wasn’t sure about anything else, I knew that enjoying what you do and being passionate about improving the lives of young people was something I immediately recognized in the people I work with.
After getting settled in, the real work really began. I spent a lot of time researching the huge movement taking place around the United States to connect children to nature and serve their community. I was amazed how many organizations already took a hold of this idea and built multiple programs to benefit the lives of many children.
We just had our Launch on May 26th, and it went really well. I was happy to see how many people and organizations supported our effort and were on board with us. From here, we will be planning our first summit and really starting to connect and understand how we can collaborate with other like-minded individuals. I’m ready to start getting youth and families outdoors and active in nature and public lands!
By: Rosalie M.
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