Another 6 Years

I’ve always believed in giving back and paying it forward. Doing for others is gratifying and good for the soul. A little over six years ago I was involved in a leadership program in my community. I was one of twelve participants that went through a series of challenges, lectures, team building, community project involvement and leadership exercises, in the hopes once we graduated from the program we would take on a leadership role within our community.

Along with the program, we were assigned mentors, that were handpicked, based on our interests. We met with our mentors several times during the length of the program. Mine happened to be the Executive Director of the Park District. After a few meetings he asked if I would consider running for the park board. He thought it would be a good fit for me and there were two seats available in the upcoming election.

After attending a couple board meetings and asking questions, I thought it would be a great experience in community leadership. So, I went through the application process, collected enough signatures and said yes to being on the ballot and was elected park board commissioner for a six year term.

That was a short six years ago and just this week I was elected again for a second term in office. Part of my responsibility and duty is being a good steward of the taxpayer’s money; which includes mine as well. I’ve done my best to understand the issues, ask questions when I don’t understand and represent the community to the best of my ability. It’s been a learning process, meeting new people throughout the state as well as the nation and having a common goal of providing parks and recreation services to the community.

I’ve learned in this position there are giving people willing to be good stewards of their neighborhoods, communities and surrounding area. They are generous with their time and energy and even though the news seems to put focus on the negative things that happen, I believe most people are good and want to be part of a community that raises its members up. I’m proud to be a part of the park board for another six years. I hope your voting voice was cast this week; it matters.

xoxox…..Sheryl