Guest column: What being a young professional means …

There are plenty of role models and paths you can follow from some of the great leaders in Kinston; however, I will refrain from mentioning any specifics since I would be sure to omit someone that is completely deserving. Learning from individuals that are considered to be “older” — or some like to say “seasoned” — can be the best gift a young professional can ask for.

So what does this mean for a community of 20- and 30-somethings that want to make a difference in Kinston and Lenoir County?

For me, getting involved in nonprofits and other organizations that promote our community is more rewarding than I would have ever believed. Being invited to be a Rotarian seven years ago was a humbling experience, but as I continue to serve the organization, I become more amazed by the people that make it so wonderful.

In July, I became president of the Rotary Club of Kinston. Of course, my first thoughts included how to keep this group of professionals that are mostly 20-40 years my elder engaged and, most importantly, how would I gain their support? It was much simpler than I thought — give respect to the ones who paved the path before me and lead with my heart and passion for the organization.

This group has taught me so much in my short five months as president, and it all stems from their ability to give from their heart and give me the support to lead our club into the next phase of Rotary.

There are dozens of organizations whose mission is to make Kinston and Lenoir County better. These organizations can use young professionals as committee members, board members and volunteers. I will mention only a few: The Community Council for the Arts, Young Professionals of Lenoir County, The Lenoir/Greene United Way, Pride of Kinston, Chamber of Commerce, Boys & Girls Club and the Historical Association. If you have an interest, find a group that shares your interest, or better yet, start one!

Decide how much time you can give and find a project that needs attention. Everyone has a unique ability that can make our community a better place, so step-out and make a difference.

If every person just made an effort to improve our town by one action a week, the cumulative results would be amazing.  It would be the community to which other young professionals want to move and be a part of, because we would have a community with young leaders making an impact.

If you want to make a difference in Kinston and need some help finding how, when and where you can help — email me! I will be more than happy to help you find a way to make a difference in our community!

Becky Hines is a native Kinstonian who is passionate about getting young professionals engaged and involved in community activities. You can contact her at ncsugrad2002@hotmail.com. The opinions of the guest columnist are not necessarily those of The Free Press.

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The Free Press guest columnist feature appears every Wednesday in this space. Would you like to be considered as a guest columnist? Contact Managing Editor Bryan Hanks at (252) 559-1074 or at bhanks@freedomenc.com.