“This is what we do in Duluth. We show up for each other!” — Mayor Emily Larson
On April 7, 2020 over 75 people gathered for a virtual celebration of National Service Recognition Day in Duluth. This annual event typically takes place within City Halls across the county. Due to the widespread stay-at-home orders caused by COVID-19, most National Service Recognition Day events were canceled.. But not in Duluth! True North AmeriCorps, alongside the Northland AmeriCorps Collaborative, proudly hosted the state’s only virtual service recognition event. Duluth’s Mayor Emily Larson joined from her home stating “this is what we do in Duluth. We show up for each other!”
During the celebration, participants heard from AmeriCorps leadership who gave an overview of the 100+ national service members who have supported the Dultuh community; Mayor Larson who expressed her gratitude for AmeriCorps including the impact she’s seen on her own children; and currently serving AmeriCorps members and what their service looks like in the face of the pandemic.
True North member Emma McLarnan, shared her story. Emma started with TNAC in May 2019 serving youth of the Steve O’Neil Apartments. The apartments are permanent supportive housing for families who have experienced chronic homelessness. Emma intended to just serve for the summer, but as her connections grew she knew she wanted to continue. Starting in the fall of 2019 she expanded her service with an additional role with First Witness Child Advocacy Center. Throughout the year she’s become an important part of both agencies – helping teach safe touch in schools and serving as a secure and supportive adult afterschool. Emma’s service has changed significantly due to the pandemic, but her dedication to her students has not. She’s now engaged in distance programming – hosting a weekly nature lesson, writing letters, and developing take home activities to keep her kids busy. Thank you Emma!
Emma is one of the thousands of members who serve our nation each year. True North AmeriCorps is grateful for the opportunity to help citizens help their community through service. Learn more about current openings at www.truenorthamericorps.org/apply