McCook and southwest Nebraska are my home. While personal experiences and
belonging are unique to each person, we all contribute to creating meaningful
opportunities and lasting connections for the youth we help, helping them build a lifelong
sense of hometown pride. Three events this summer created opportunities to form
partnerships and build valuable connections.
My role in Summer 2025 was as director for two McCook High School graduates, along
with partner Jeff Gross and Ronda Graff. This program is made possible by the
Nebraska Community Foundation Summer Hometown Intern Program and also
supported by the McCook Community Foundation Fund.
Natalie Roberts (MHS Class of 2023), a past member of MCFF's youth group YCR
(Youth Change Reaction), contributed to fostering engagement with the Bison
Newsletter and enhancing connections with alums. Her social media posts help former
MHS graduates reestablish connections with McCook, including those who have
relocated.
Lucas Gomez-Wilson, MHS Class of 2023, pursued community development by utilizing
video platforms and producing a range of content. He reviewed previous videos and
created new material. He participated in various experiences within the community to
document life in his hometown. His video projects aim to represent aspects of living in
McCook, including community activities, personal stories, and community welcoming
events.
In spring 2025, the Nebraska Community Foundation initiated its inaugural statewide
Youth Summit for youth organizations connected to NCF. The event, held in McCook,
was co-organized by MCFF's youth group, Youth Change Reaction (YCR). YCR is
composed of students from MHS High School and supported by their sponsors: Shelly
Sehnert, Gavin Harsh, and Pam Wolford.
The first Youth Summit was a 24-hour event exploring McCook's many assets. YCR led
activities about creating local experiences that build connections and pride in their
hometown. Former and current members discussed their role in establishing Cars
Under the Stars, the out-door theater at Red Willow County Fair Grounds, which is truly
inspiring. Their journey, filled with challenges like fundraising and equipment
procurement, showcases their determination and resilience. Despite facing a constant
barrage of unpredictable obstacles, they never gave up. This experience not only
boosted their confidence but also instilled a sense of hometown pride.
Past and present YCR members participated in a conversation with Caroline Kleinfox,
Director of U.S. Sustainable Development Goals, based in New York City. Kleinfox was
most interested in the discussion from our youth and their reaction to the sustainable
goals and how they impact our day-to-day living, along with the long-term effects of their
implementation on their own future and our environment.
All of these ventures serve as proof of concept for the significant value that young
people in our hometowns contribute as assets, though their contributions are at times
underestimated. These experiences have broadened my perspective on the benefits of
engaging young people in decision-making processes and partnering with them to
shape the communities we all aspire to call home.
Let's come together to celebrate our youth's achievements and work collaboratively to
build a welcoming community where every young person feels at home.
***
Cindy Huff is the McCook Community Foundation Fund past chairperson and Nebraska
Community Foundation chair-elect, along with grandparenting, gardening and fishing in
her spare time.
