Youth Advisory Council (YAC) member, First Presbyterian Church of Bozeman, MT
Tell us a bit about your SSP story.
Dani: I’ve been involved with SSP the last three summers with my church group, serving once in Spokane, once in San Diego, and this summer at home in Bozeman, where we did local service projects in our community. My youth leader had attended SSP many years ago, and decided restarting that tradition would be a good way for us all to connect. Before my first experience, I had no idea SSP would become such an influential piece of my life.
What are some of your favorite SSP memories?
Dani: A really distinct memory that stands out is playing the card game Rat Slap with a bunch of friends in Spokane, but I had found a fly swatter and was using it to win the game. Another is visiting Friendship Park in San Diego with participants from our week right on the other side of the wall in Mexico. I treasure the personal change SSP has given to me, in my own spirituality and character.
How are you involved in your local community? How has this changed through the pandemic?
Dani: At home in Bozeman, I’m involved with choir in school. Singing is one of my hobbies, and I’m constantly trying to improve. Sharing that with others in my community at choir in school, or at church, or with my family is how I can express myself and connect with others. Singing in the pandemic has definitely changed. At school, we have special masks that cover a larger amount of your face than typical masks, and online church has taken out many opportunities to sing.
How has SSP impacted your life?
Dani: SSP has made me realize that although I’m striving to study science, service will always be a part of me. The profound feeling of community SSP provides while giving back is one I want to share and spread with others.
Editor’s Note: Youth are invited to join Dani and the rest of the Youth Advisory Council at the monthly ZZP with SSP gatherings. Registration is free!