Staying in Indiana was never a part of Kyla's post-college plans. However, after living in Indianapolis for two years, she is happy with the way things have worked out.
Upon graduating from Purdue in 2022, Kyla began her career as a civil engineer with JQOL in Indy. And she has found the perfect volunteer opportunity to match her skills and interests with Home Repairs for Good.
Kyla was introduced to Home Repairs for Good (formerly NeighborLink Indianapolis) at a Purdue Networking event. She approached Lisa Cole and expressed a desire to improve her speaking skills.
“Lisa suggested an Engagement Lead Role for me,” she says. It has turned out to be a perfect fit.
“At the beginning of a project, I introduce our volunteers to each other. I discuss why they’re here, and why we (the organization) is here. We go over the who, what, when, where, and why of things.”
As Engagement Lead, Kyla sets the tone for the workday, and helps provide context to emphasize the value of the team’s participation. Then her counterpart, the Project Supervisor takes on the operational role of overseeing the nuts and bolts of getting the job done. Kyla has also assisted in this role from time to time.
Early on, Kyla noticed that HRG's projects were happening in areas where her employer was doing work as well. “We would be working with a home owner in a neighborhood and there would be a park nearby that our company would be redesigning,” she says. She notes that this has enabled her to see her work from a community as well as an engineering perspective.
Kyla recounts a recent experience that left a lasting impression. “The homeowner came outside as we were about to begin work and suggested that we pray. So we prayed. She thanked God that she was alive and able to walk out her front door that day. Seeing her gratitude and appreciation for the basic things we take for granted really stuck with me!” she says.
A member of Generation Z, Kyla is committed to volunteering. She never misses an opportunity to spread the word about Home Repairs for Good to friends and coworkers.
“We live in a selfish society. I think that it's important to realize that there are other people in the world beside you,” she says. “I feel that my generation is optimistic. We realize that things can be better! We can be better!” she says.
Kyla was born in Belgium (her dad was in the military). Her family lived in Nebraska and Texas before relocating to Michigan when she was 13. Growing up, she was always encouraged to help others. She has found Indianapolis to be a great city for a young professional, with plenty of opportunities to do good work.
Her parents are both marathon runners, and Kyla has set a personal goal to literally “follow in their footsteps.” She hopes to compete in her first 5K Marathon in the near future.
Through her role as a volunteer, Kyla has found a purpose with Home Repairs for Good. As a technical professional, being able to improve her communication skills has been very valuable. “I am grateful to Lisa for introducing me to the agency. It is wonderful that my volunteerism helps me to grow in my career,” Kyla says.
Whether you are Gen Z, a Boomer, or are somewhere in between, there are many different roles available for you to volunteer, either individually or as a team. Coming up is our Fall Repair Fest, October 26. This will be a perfect opportunity to jump into a volunteer project with Home Repairs for Good. Learn more here.
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