People want to know, will the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) miss our graduating seniors? The answer is a huge YES! Their knowledge and love for community has made them outstanding members of this dynamic group. When they leave, they will be leaving gigantic shoes to fill, but they have been training the next generation of YAC-ers to carry on.
“Every year I’m the YAC advisor, I’m amazed at the leadership, compassion, and dedication the youth of the group have for the community they love. These four graduating YAC-ers have not only touched the lives of so many by awarding grants, starting two proactive grants, and volunteering hours, but they have touched my life in so many ways, too. They are all shining stars and I’m excited to see what they do next…..I’m sure great things” – Karin Beyer, OCF YAC advisor
See what’s in store for the next chapter of their lives:
Rebecca Reynolds
What are your future plans?
I will attend Lawrence University and Conservatory of Music to double major in Flute Performance and Computer Science. After I am finished with college, I plan to play in an orchestra, teach private flute lessons, and work as a freelance musician.
How has YAC impacted you?
YAC gave me a way to get involved in my community and make a positive difference in the world I live in. Additionally, YAC allowed me to get involved in the granting process from the side of the people awarding grants. This helped me tremendously when I was writing grants to raise funds for my Girl Scout Gold Award project, establishing a Makerspace at the Otsego County Library. I will be able to take the granting skills that I learned from YAC into the future when I need to raise funds for other community service projects. Most importantly, YAC taught me how important it is to get involved in your community and volunteer in whatever ways you can.
Elizabeth Pallarito
What are your future plans?
My future plans are to attend Saginaw Valley State University to enter the healthcare field.
How has YAC impacted you?
YAC has impacted how I view and support my community. I have stepped out of my comfort zone and tried new things that I might not have been able to do without YAC.
Daniel Reynolds
What are your future plans?
This coming fall I plan to attend Michigan Tech for Chemical Engineering.
How has YAC impacted you?
YAC has taught me the importance of staying active in your community, and it has shown me how beneficial philanthropy can be, even from the youth.
Tanner Beyers
What are your future plans?
My future plans are to finish early college and get my associates degree. After that, I’ll go to a flight school to become a commercial airline pilot.
How has YAC impacted you?
YAC has helped me realize what it’s going to be like in the future when I sign up for future positions on boards and volunteering. It’s also shown me different ways to help people and how to work with others, along with giving me a chance to meet and become friends with different types of people rather than my typical group.
Join us in wishing a big congratulations to our graduating YAC-ers!