How did you learn about volunteering opportunities in Siouxland?
“I initially started with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland as a board member, and from there, I fell in love with the organization, and then I became a Big Brother. I’ve been a Big Brother for a total of seven years. During that time, I was also part of the Sioux City Growth Organization, which encourages young professionals to become active members of the Siouxland community. I’ve also been a volunteer firefighter with the North Sioux City Fire Department since 2015. I didn’t know anything about firefighting, and I just reached out to a friend who was also a volunteer firefighter there, and I thought it would be great to try it out. I started as a firefighter, got my EMT, joined their board, and was voted as Captain of Rescue 8. We run about 700 calls a year, and I make just under half of them. In addition, I was one of the founders who started the St. Florian Burn Foundation. This non-profit is empowering the burn community to come together, build strength, and hope along the journey and be a unified voice for support and prevention. It’s been a great experience to be able to be active with a variety of organizations that are giving back to the community.”
Why is it important to give back to our community as a volunteer?
“Put your fears aside and explore the opportunities. We’re a big/small city to where it’s big enough, but there are a lot of opportunities out there. But when you get to know the nonprofit world, you’ll begin to see that a lot of nonprofits in our community need help, whether it’s financially, or it’s with time. There’s always a way to give back to them. It’s just a matter of finding the one you can align with your heart. In the past, Kruse Financial has given back to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland and St. Florian Burn Foundation. We find ways to help out.”
What is the best advice you can give to someone that wants to give back or volunteer?
“The big thing that I say is people tend to focus on what’s screaming the loudest. What is calling you? And when you respond to that calling, then you find the time. Everyone has a little bit of time and the fulfillment you get out of it, is worth it. You’ve got to find what fits you. For me, it was being a first responder, being on boards, helping kids. Find your passion and know that what you’re doing is something you really enjoy. You’ll find a sense of purpose. I feel good in making sure someone feels good. Whether it’s through my job, or through volunteering, I come in with a mindset of helping others.”
Tyler’s Biography:
Tyler Kruse is a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland. He was born and raised in Sioux City, IA. Tyler has been working with Kruse Financial Group since December 2014 as a Financial Adviser. He graduated from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln in 2014 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Biological Systems Engineering with an emphasis in Biomedical Engineering. Tyler believes that it is important to be involved and give back to the community. Tyler has a passion for helping people, which is shown through his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland, and the North Sioux City Fire Department. Tyler has been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2015 by participating in the program as a ‘Big’ as well as serving as the Vice-Chairman on the Board of Directors. Tyler is a Certified Fire Fighter and EMT for the North Sioux City Fire Department. He was also promoted to Captain and serves as the President on the Board of Directors. Other causes and organizations that Tyler supports and is involved in include: The St. Florian Burn Foundation, Sioux City Growth Organization, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Tyler enjoys spending time with friends and family, which may include a relaxing day on the water or an exciting day on the slopes. Tyler believes that building relationships is one of the most important things you can do, therefore he is committed to working with our clients to help them succeed in their financial planning goals.
