August Board Letter

Dear community,

Since joining the board in January, I have had the privilege of meeting so many of you, and to those I haven’t met yet: I am looking forward to meeting you as well. I am twenty-two and have been fortunate to call Nevada County home my whole life. While many people my age are eager to venture out, I can truly say I have loved every minute of growing up here. That said, growing up a non-binary lesbian in this community also presented its challenges- primarily the feeling of being isolated. This feeling of isolation I grew up holding has led me to be the biggest proponent of community as an adult. This ultimately led me to join the board. I got involved with Nevada County Pride with one main goal: ensuring local youth feel more connected to their community. I have worked towards this goal through a variety of things. From running a weekly group all of last year, to partnering with The Spectrum Project to run Amplify (a free queer youth concert at the Miner’s Foundry), to forging lots of little connections between youth along the way. While my board membership has allowed me to work toward creating community among youth, it has also shaped me in ways I never expected. Joining the board has integrated me into the community. These past eight months have been full of connection, mutual aid, and the feeling of being a part of something bigger than myself. If you have a passion for community, ideas for creating local change, or anything else that calls to you, I encourage you to consider reaching out to learn more about how you can join the board. It has been a profound source of joy for me and has shaped the way I engage with the world around me. I no longer carry the feeling of isolation, and I have Nevada County Pride and all of you to thank for that. If you have questions about board membership or anything pertaining to the youth, you’re always welcome to reach out. 

With love, 

Abby Richards (they/she)