Empowering Rural ND: Laney's Impact through AmeriCorps and Vision West ND
Article by Kacie Kostelecky
An inspiring story that highlights the valuable contributions of Laney, a dedicated member of the AmeriCorps team, in enhancing the capacity of our organization to serve the community.
Laney's Impact
In alignment with her passion for agribusiness, Laney happily agreed to take on the role of AmeriCorps Communications & Outreach Specialist working under Vision West ND’s Administrative Team. Vision West ND is a non-profit 501(C)3 in western North Dakota, whose primary focus is to mobilize western North Dakota towards a resilient and prosperous quality of life for all residents. Laney was introduced and quickly acclimated into their Natural Resource Committee, gaining insights into business management, community building, and making valuable connections. Through her efforts, she not only enhanced her skills but also contributed to the long-term sustainability of Vision West ND’s mission.
AmeriCorps is Here to Help
AmeriCorps provided Laney with invaluable opportunities for skill development, particularly in dealing with workplace stress and effective communication. The workshops offered by AmeriCorps equipped her with the knowledge to identify communication issues, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment.
“Having the knowledge form the AmeriCorps workshop has allowed me to identify common issues in the workplace as they are taking place,” said Laney, “I can identify an issue and address it appropriately, and I think that’s important.”
Laney's collaboration with colleagues and mentors within AmeriCorps and Vision West ND played a crucial role in advancing her career goals. Regular check-ins and thorough support from mentors like Victoria with Souris Basin Planning Council (an AmeriCorps STATE intermediary sponsor) and Lydia with Vision West ND ensured she was getting the most out of her work experience. AmeriCorps' flexibility in training and accommodation further facilitated Laney's balance between work, school, and home.
Victoria commented,
“The goal of Souris Basin Planning Council’s Community Builder Program is to place AmeriCorps members at state and nonprofit agencies statewide to grow capacity in rural communities. It is exciting to see Laney do just that for Vision West ND while developing her soft skills and professional development. Through the support of partnering host sites like Vision West ND, we continue to expand economic opportunities for North Dakota Communities, create healthier future members, and grow equitable access to education and resources throughout our region.”
Engaging the Community
In terms of community engagement, Laney actively collaborated with local stakeholders to amplify the impact of Vision West ND. She played a key role in developing tools and communications to reach out to the consortium, promoting awareness and inviting members to participate in important projects like the Summit on Behavioral Health in Energy Country.
Connecting the Dots
Reflecting on her time with AmeriCorps, Laney emphasizes the importance of connections in shaping her career development. “The one thing that I have witnessed from my time here is the importance of connections. Specifically, watching Deb at meetings. Her interactions with the consortium are inspiring and watching her be able to address a room has left an impression in my mind that I will carry with me moving forward.”
Laney's positive impact will leave a lasting impact beyond her involvement with AmeriCorps. Through the creation of databases and agreements that streamline organizational processes, she developed long-term solutions and continuous support for the organization.
AmeriCorps and Vision West ND
AmeriCorps and Vision West ND have been instrumental in Laney's career development, providing unique opportunities for skill enhancement, community engagement, and personal growth. Laney's story is a testament to AmeriCorps ability to benefit individuals like college students, offering opportunities to expand resumes, elevate thinking, and acquire specific skills for future endeavors.
Final Comments
Laney finished the interview with an important message,
“I would suggest AmeriCorps, because it opens opportunities to people for future employers. For me, it’s elevated my way of thinking and given me new strategies when it comes to business. I think it might even give someone the boost they need to get their degree. Once members complete their service, they get help with educational costs.”
AmeriCorps Week 2024
AmeriCorps Week 2024 is March 10-16. During AmeriCorps Week we recognize the commitment of the millions of Americans who have chosen to serve their country through AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors, and encourage others to follow in their footsteps of service.
If you would like to learn more about Souris Basin’s Community Builder Program and AmeriCorps, view their website at: https://www.sourisbasin.org/community-builder.
If you are interested in becoming a Community Builder Host Site, please contact Victoria at Victoria@sourisbasin.org
To learn more about Vision West ND, please visit us online at www.visionwestnd.com.
