Volunteer Spotlight

Taylor, how did you originally get involved with Clean Air Holly Springs?

During my junior year of highschool, I really wanted to join the environmental club after I took AP environmental science. Almost immediately after joining the environmental club, Julia introduced me to the Clean Air Holly Springs and I fell in love with the cause. Since then, I have been lucky enough to work with Rachel, Tina, and Julia, who are all so amazing and passionate about bettering the air the we breathe.

Tell us about one rewarding experience you've had with Clean Air Holly Springs?

I find it especially rewarding when people tell me that they have heard of CAHS and our cause through friends or family members. It makes me feel like we are actually making a difference and getting the conversation going about air quality.

What is one word that comes to mind when you think about CAHS?

Perseverance. I know that no matter how hard life gets, we will keep trying our hardest to push for a cleaner, safer environment.

What is a piece of advice you have to share with people when it comes to mitigating their personal impact on the environment?

Little actions can make a difference in big numbers. If you can get your family and friends to talk about the small things they can change, we can start a movement that creates a big impact.

Tell us about your plans outside of Clean Air Holly Springs for the next 1-3 years?

I plan on attending college at Chapel Hill (hopefully) to Major in Environmental Science. Working to help better the environment is the only thing I can see myself working towards and I am so excited to see where I end up. Climate change is hastily approaching and whatever steps I can help take to make our world a better, cleaner place is what I want to strive for.

Julia, Why did you originally get involved with Clean Air Holly Springs?

I got Involved with CAHS to get a better understanding of my personal impact on the environment and to learn important skills that would assist me in my career as a scientist.

How has working with Clean Air Holly Springs benefitted you personally?

Not only have I learned a great deal about the environment and my role in it, but I have learned valuable communication and problem solving skills that have led to further success outside my intern role. Working with CAHS helped me to gain a position with the Muesum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh last fall, as well as support scholarship and college applications. Overall CAHS has been an amazing opportunity to learn more about my self, gain important skills and experiences, and develop my passion for the environment.

What is one word to describe Clean Air Holly Springs?

Driven. Despite our organization being based in volunteerism, we are all extremely passionate about our roles and bringing our goals into reality. I cannot wait to see what we do next!

Tell us about your plans outside of Clean Air Holly Springs for the next 1-3 years?

I am attending NCSU as an industrial engineering major with a minor in sustainability. I am very interested in finding out ways to improve systems to cut out waste and make them more efficient. I hope to get involved with agroecology and sustainable food waste systems during my time at State but I am super excited to explore new fields and passions within sustainable research.