Rustic Spirit Spotlights: Emilee, Alexa and Emily

Rustic Spirit Spotlights shine a light on exceptional young individuals who are making a positive impact. These remarkable changemakers are proof that teenagers have the power to change the world. Through their dedication and hard work, they’re setting an example and encouraging others to make a difference in their communities.

Emilee Fisher-Henson
Age 18
Belleville Mennonite School
McVeytown, Pennsylvania

Emilee and her sister recognized a significant problem when their local library reopened without children’s books or programs. In response, they created a children’s community library on the upper floor. Every month, they volunteer their time to host a story hour, leading crafts, interactive storytelling, and helping children find books on topics that interest them. They also contribute to organizing and filing new books, decorating the library to create a welcoming environment, and participating in community events to raise awareness about the library’s offerings.

In college, Emilee plans to major in early childhood education and pursue a career as a STEM teacher. In her free time, Emilee enjoys running, being outdoors, playing the cello, and continuing her volunteer work at the library.

Emilee says to find something you are passionate about and don’t let anything stop you from achieving your vision.

Alexa Wilsey
Age 18
Beaver County Christian
Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania

Fighting cancer herself, Alexa is dedicated to raising awareness for pediatric cancer. She led a successful fundraiser at her school, selling pins during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and raising $800 for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Alexa also actively volunteers at her church, collaborating with an organization that provides bikes for children in difficult situations and Manna Soup Kitchen. Through the ministry called Helping Hands, she also assists in providing essential items to children in need.

In college, Alexa intends to double major in English literature and music. Although she hasn’t decided on a specific career path, she is considering options such as journalism, research writing, becoming a professor, or even pursuing law. In her free time, Alexa loves to read, sing, play the piano, and even write songs inspired by books she has read or topics for class. As a self-proclaimed theater kid, she enjoys participating in musicals and theater productions with her friends.

Alexa’s advice is to seize opportunities and make a difference. Small acts of kindness at school can create an impact, so she suggests saying hi and learning people’s names instead of walking with your head down. Focus on what you can do to help, rather than dwelling on the world’s problems. Look for opportunities in your local community, and even if initially unexciting, persevere through them as you may end up loving it.

Emily Heuer
Age 17
Waverly South Shore
Summit, South Dakota

Emily dedicates her time to mowing lawns for elders in her area and assisting churches in her community. She recognizes the importance of supporting older individuals who may have difficulty maintaining their lawns, and by providing this service, she ensures their outdoor spaces are safe and well-kept. Additionally, Emily organizes community cleanup days to help pick up trash in the area, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

Emily’s future plans include pursuing a career in physical therapy. In her free time, she enjoys engaging in activities that make a positive impact, such as helping those in need and spending time camping with friends and family.

Emily advises other students who want to make a positive impact to focus on doing things they love. She also emphasizes the importance of setting an example and treating others how you want to be treated, so you can inspire them to do the same.

Nominate a Student

Do you know a student doing valuable work that deserves to be recognized? Nominate them here! Are you making an impact? Tell us about your work here.

Make Change

Interested in creating change in your community? Check out our guide and learn how to make an impact as a student.

At Rustic Pathways, our goal is to make positive contributions to the communities we visit through responsible travel operations and community service projects that contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.