I’m Hannah, an AmeriCorps Volunteer in Southern Colorado.

I serve with Alpine Achievers Initiative (AAI), an organization whose mission is to inspire, connect, and nurture youth, families, and communities in rural Colorado. As a Program Specialist at my site placement, Monte Vista Kids Connection, I support local afterschool and summer programs for youth in the San Luis Valley.

It’s been exciting to contribute to a growing movement of support for historically underfunded communities. Since its founding in 2012, AAI has expanded to serve multiple communities across rural South-Central Colorado. But my journey here began somewhere very different.

I grew up in Southern California and earned my degree in Literary Journalism from a top 10 public university. After graduating, I transitioned into a development role as the Community Coordinator for my favorite climbing gym, Sender One in Santa Ana—where I had previously coached youth ages 5–9 in the climbing program.

While I loved my work, I had dreamed of joining AmeriCorps throughout college. As I reflected on the path that brought me here—including the years I spent working hard to get into my university and build a strong foundation for my career—I realized I didn’t want to put off service any longer. I have the rest of my life to grow a career and bank account, but I’ll only be 23 once. With no major financial obligations or dependents, I saw a rare window to devote my time and energy to something deeply meaningful.

I'm here because I’ve been fortunate in life, with access to opportunities and support that many young people don’t have. This service time is my way of giving back—of helping youth access the same kind of encouragement and guidance that helped shape my own path.