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Story and Photos By DEVIN WEEKS
Meet Jessica Mahuron, a mission-driven organizer with a love for people and learning. She is a novelty-seeker and event-goer with an appreciation for the unique and unusual.
Generation:
“I was born in 1982, on the cusp of Generation X and the millennial generation. Recently, the new buzz word for the micro-generation of those born between 1977-1983 is ‘Xennenials’ or those who had an analog childhood but digital adulthood. Frankly, I am not too hung up on generation identities, as I feel that I am an ‘old soul’ with youthful optimism that allows me to connect with people of different ages.”
Career and community involvement:
“I have an eclectic career history, but a common theme in all my work is directly interacting with people of all walks of life and creative organizing. Lately, I have worked as an independent contractor. This allows me to lend my skills and passions to great organizations and projects and build new relationships. The last project that I worked on was the first-ever Coeur d’Alene Maker Faire, organized by Gizmo and partners. I will be going next to North Idaho Pride Alliance to help organize volunteers and activities to serve their mission.
“My community involvement is varied as well. I have a passion for attending community events and supporting great causes. I have been an active member of the League of Women Voters for the last few years and am currently a member of North Idaho NOW, and of course volunteer for my organization, the Civic Engagement Alliance. I recently realized that it was important that I serve on a couple of committees that are in line with the work I want to do in the community. I applied to both the Coeur d’Alene Press Publisher’s Advisory Committee and to the new Envision Community Advisory Committee and am excited to be included in both of these positive endeavors!”
Parental status:
“My husband and I don’t have children yet. If the most important job of all (being parents to a child) is assigned to us, it will surely happen when it’s supposed to.”
1. Why did you decide to create the Civic Engagement Alliance?
“I took action to create the Civic Engagement Alliance because I am driven to unify and creatively engage people in the electoral process and community life on the hyperlocal, grassroots level. I felt there was a huge need in our area for an inclusive, flexible platform that brings people together from all walks of life for nonpartisan, positive engagement that includes increasing voter turnout and promoting volunteerism.”
2. How can we as normal people create the change we want to see in our society?
“Anyone can choose to put themselves out there, connect with others and champion dreams and causes in their own community. Whatever you value in life, and despite whatever challenges you may have, you can choose to carve out a little bit of time and energy and put your beliefs into action.
“As Gandhi said, ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world.’ The best advice I can give, whether that is to an activist, an entrepreneur, or to someone who simply wants to engage with their community when they can while balancing work and family life, is to take initiative and move forward with the baby steps that work best for you.”
3. What has been most rewarding and most challenging about getting involved in your community?
“By far, the most rewarding aspect of getting involved in the community for me is the relationships you build with others and the opportunities that arise from nurturing those relationships. It is very powerful to see a successful project come together because of all who worked together to make it a success.
“On the other hand, the most challenging thing for me is that I personally am driven to get things done and want to push things forward on a rapid timeline. Sometimes, you have to slow down and realize that some things have to incubate and evolve. You have to accept that challenges or roadblocks will arise and collaboration does not always mean everyone will agree.”
4. What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
“I am an empathetic people-person who is passionate about direct outreach, but I am through-and-through an introvert that needs ample time to be alone to recharge my batteries and innovate. I grew up as a shy bookworm and a misfit but evolved into a social butterfly that thrives from being independent.”
5. If you could send a message out to your fellow North Idahoans, what would it be?
“We live in one of the most beautiful areas of the nation and there is much to be grateful for. If you love where you live and want to see your community prosper, consider the best way YOU can be a source of positive influence based on the unique talents, skills and passions you have and connect them with others, even if you don’t consider yourself a people-person.
“‘Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.’ - Mother Teresa.”