After only three weeks of my internship through Ogallala Commons, I have learned about numerous activities in my community, and I have been able to help out with many of them.
The first major project that I helped with was our church’s vacation bible school. I made wall decorations that included a periodic table of the bible. I prepared slide shows of the song lyrics for the music team. I printed labels to assemble with the name tags, and I helped with arts and crafts during the week.
Each week I have also been in charge of publishing the weekly news called swift kicks. First, I have to decide which articles I am going to include for the week. Then I gather all the information and documentation that I need. This might include interviewing individuals or collecting pictures from people that are involved in the story or those who attended the specific event. Once the document is completed, I publish the news around our town to let everyone know the newest information.
There are a few more projects that I have been working on and will complete throughout the summer. For our local food pantry, Darryl Birkenfeld and I planted a garden with a variety of vegetables that will be used to provide meals for those who need it. I water it each day that I am able to. I was in charge of one week of a reading program for which I had to read children a book and prepare an activity and snack. I am also currently working on a community map that has each home labeled to be used by the church and school. I will also be helping to complete an exhibit honoring the girls basketball 20 State Championships that will be displayed at our town’s annual German Fest.
Through each of the tasks I perform, I am learning about my community and obtaining information and skills that will benefit my life.

