Stewardship Is Service

A Great Story by Brett Miller

“I love the great outdoors, that is a statement that has always applied to me whether I knew or not. Over time I became more aware on the importance nature played in my life and learned about why it needs to be preserved, yet I never learned much about what I could do to become a steward for the outdoors.

My brief time with AmeriCorps St. Louis has given me the opportunity to help me answer that question, serve with others with like minded goals, and learn more about myself. From prescribed burns, to trail work, to glade restoration, to prepping a burn unit, I've gotten so many answers as to what I can do to become the steward that I always wanted to be, and how I can make a career out of it. I've also gotten serve with so many fellow Corps Members that have similar passions to me, and have gotten to learn from many knowledgeable people in the field. Seeing their heart, soul, and knowledge put into a job they love inspires me and gives me hope that I could someday make an impact like they are.

This experience has also given me the opportunity to set personal goals, learn about myself, and develop into a better steward. I've gotten the opportunity to learn about strengths that I have, things to work on, and I believe that I will become a better steward because of this. While my time at AmeriCorps has been brief and challenging, I am certain that I made one of the greatest decisions of my life, and while I'm sure there will be many more challenges, I look forward to facing them. The things that truly matter are the things that are harder to achieve, and being a steward and a servant matters and I intend on striving to be that person.”

Brett and his teammates relaxing after a day of service.

Brett on a prescribed burn at White Ranch Conservation Area with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Photo by Chelsea Derbyshire.