This is part of our “It Starts With You” series, highlighting how one action can bring about change in the community. While change is a community effort, it ultimately begins with each one of us choosing to take action.
Meet Melissa Busby Fernlund and learn how it started with her.
How it started
I heard about Second Story, formerly called Alternative House, from my friend Amy. Immediately, I was impressed with how many children were served in the area and how efficient the programs were run. Second Story’s mission to break the cycles of hopelessness and poverty really resonated, and I wanted to help any way I could. My own kids were entering college, so I could carve out some time.
Melissa’s work today
I organized donations for youth in the Young Mothers program, hosted occasional drives such as the “Bring a Bra” Mother’s Day Brunch, and helped with gardening at the various program locations. I have served on the board of directors for about 10 years, assisting with various organizational details.
Second Story programs are designed to support kids at critical moments, usually in challenging teenage years. An unsafe home situation or a couple of bad decisions can predicate a downward spiral. That’s when Second Story jumps in with counseling and resources to turn things around. It is a pleasure to see children redirect themselves and find the confidence and success that will enable them to be productive adults.
What does It Starts With You mean?
“It Starts with You” means that everyone can — and must — take action. If we each tackle a small piece of the poverty problem, we can achieve real results. Some people may be able to donate lots of money; others may choose to devote time, energy, or creativity, or simply reach out to a neighbor in need. Improving our community is up to us.
