Executive Director, Siouxland CARES About Substance Abuse

What are you working on now? 

I have the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles throughout the community. Previously as a volunteer and now in a work capacity, I serve as an Adult Advisor of the Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission. Additionally, I am an Ambassador with the Siouxland Chamber; Chair of the Siouxland Chamber Small Business EXPO; and Steering Committee Member of the Chris Larsen Park Riverfront Development Project. I thoroughly enjoy my involvement in each of these capacities as they allow me the chance to support our youth, small businesses, and community projects.

What is your vision for the future? 

My vision for the future is a stronger and brighter Siouxland that continually invests in our young leaders, small businesses, and community projects. In order to accomplish this, we must first continue to build up our youth leaders in hopes that they will move away, experience new things, and bring their passion and excitement back to Siouxland! 

Additionally, I believe in the importance of Quality of Life amenities. These amenities can encompass a vast array of items, including (but not limited to) our park systems, arts and entertainment, community events and activities, and community connectedness. I am genuinely excited to see positive growth in our community in many of these areas. The more we work to improve the Quality of Life in Siouxland, the more attractive it will be to our existing youth leaders (and, future young professionals!).

What would you like to see happen in Siouxland?

I grew up in the Siouxland community, moved away, and returned. Since my return, I have been impressed by the amount of growth and development that has happened in and around Downtown Sioux City. Historic buildings are undergoing renovations; our Pearl Street and Historic Fourth Street districts are almost connected; we have many small businesses that have opened or expanded; and our Chris Larsen Park Riverfront Development Project construction has commenced. With the amount of progress we have seen in the past five years, I cannot wait to see what the next ten years have in store!

What are you doing to make that happen?

I am a firm believer in getting involved in the community. Community involvement is one of the best ways to shape the future of Siouxland. In my current roles, I have many opportunities to empower youth leaders, support (and grow!) small businesses, and provide input on great community projects! Additionally, my past experiences included advocating for young professionals as a Member, Chair, Board Member and Past President of the Sioux City Growth Organization. To any young professional reading this, I highly encourage you to get involved in this organization!

How can people help you make that happen? 

The future of our community lies in the hands of our youth leaders. In order to see continued growth and innovation in our community, we need to get our youth involved today. The Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission is a great place to start! The youth learn how to make a positive impact in their community; develop their leadership skills; and participate in community service activities. 

I would also encourage community members to view Siouxland through the lens of a Mayor’s Youth Commission member. At every meeting, event and activity, I am blown away by their vision, drive and optimistic view of our community and world as a whole. They impact the way I look at Siouxland and I would highly encourage others to develop a similar, “we can do anything” mindset!

What quote inspires you?

“If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later.” – Richard Branson

Volunteer Organizations

Sioux City Mayor’s Youth Commission – Adult Advisor

Siouxland Chamber of Commerce – Ambassador

Small Business EXPO – Chair

Chris Larsen Park Riverfront Development Project – Steering Committee Member

Source for Siouxland – Leadership Team Member