By Allison Peck
Listen to the interview on our Kubota Podcast
NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Abbi Zeller has been recognized as the September Community Hero for Kids by Prairie Friends and Flowers and the North Platte Post for her work building relationships with young people through her church.
Zeller began working with youth in 2023, the same year she graduated high school. She said she started working with girls who were in eighth grade at the time and has continued those relationships as they have progressed into their junior year of high school.
For Zeller, the relationships have extended beyond regular youth group activities.
“They're like little sisters to me,” Zeller said.
She said she stays connected with the girls throughout the school year and summer through texting, social media and regular communication.
Zeller said maintaining those relationships is important because she wants to make sure the kids are doing well and have someone they can turn to.
She said her own experience with a youth leader inspired her to provide that same type of support for others.
“That’s what my leader did to me when I was in youth group, so it’s kind of what I want to do to them and be a good role model,” Zeller said.
In addition to working with older youth, Zeller also volunteers with younger children at her church, including two- and three-year-olds.
She said being recognized as a Community Hero for Kids is meaningful, even though she isn't particularly comfortable being the center of attention.
“It means a lot,” Zeller said. “I've been involved in the community and being recognized for being a community hero for kids, it definitely means a lot to me.”
Zeller plans to continue working with young people and building relationships with more children in the community.
She said having a positive role model can be especially important for children who may not have one at home or who may not feel comfortable talking with their parents about certain situations.
“Because they might not always have a role model at home, and you might be the best role model for them,” Zeller said.
Zeller was recognized by Prairie Friends and Flowers as the September Community Hero for Kids.