Volunteer Family History Consultant
Amateur Radio Operator-W5TRG
As a seasoned amateur radio enthusiast, I’m always looking for ways to amplify my skills and expand the reach of our community’s passion for communication. Currently, I’m studying for my General license, with a goal of obtaining it by November this year – a challenge that fuels my enthusiasm for the hobby.
As an active member of the Cowtown Amateur Radio Club in Fort Worth, Texas, I’ve taken on various roles to contribute to the club’s success. As secretary, I’m responsible for capturing the essence of our monthly meetings through meticulous minute-taking, while also fielding phone and email inquiries about amateur radio and club activities.
But my duties extend far beyond administrative tasks! I craft all correspondence between the club and our valued partners – including the City of Fort Worth, The American Red Cross, The Cowtown Marathon, March of Dimes, R.A.C.E.S, local and state elected officials, and more. It’s a privilege to serve these organizations through our amateur radio services.
I’m also proud to co-chair two of our club’s flagship events: Field Day and the ARISS program (Amateur Radio on the International Space Station). These initiatives not only showcase the power of amateur radio but also inspire young minds to explore STEM fields. I’ve had the thrill of coordinating with astronauts and students alike, facilitating opportunities for hands-on learning and real-world application.
In my quest to make our club’s impact more tangible, I recently launched a self-reporting survey to track volunteer hours among members. This tool not only helps us measure our collective contributions but also encourages community engagement and collaboration.
As an amateur radio enthusiast, I thrive on making connections and forging relationships with community members. By doing so, I often discover opportunities for our club to provide valuable services that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether it’s responding to emergencies or simply facilitating communication between local organizations, my passion is to empower our community through the art and science of amateur radio.
Volunteer Family History Consultant
As a dedicated FamilySearch Consultant, I’m fueled by a passion that drives me to volunteer 16-20 hours per month, helping patrons uncover the mysteries of their family past. With every research session, I feel like a detective on the case, unraveling threads of history and weaving them into a rich tapestry of discovery.
As a seasoned expert in genealogical research, I guide my clients through the vast expanse of online resources, including FamilySearch.org and Ancestry.com, to uncover hidden treasures and forgotten stories. But it’s not just about providing answers – it’s about empowering individuals to take control of their family history. I teach one-on-one sessions on database creation and usage, equipping my clients with the skills they need to navigate the complex world of genealogy.
But what truly sets me apart is my ability to help genealogists break through those pesky brick walls that have held them back for so long. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of historical context, I help individuals connect the dots between seemingly unrelated facts and piece together the larger narrative of their family’s story.
As an accomplished lecturer, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my expertise across the DFW Metroplex on a range of genealogical topics. It’s not just about imparting knowledge. I love inspiring others to embark on their own journey of discovery.
My personal connection to genealogy began when I was just 8 years old, literally tripping over an ancestor’s grave stone buried under grass and brambles. It was a moment that sparked a lifelong passion for uncovering the secrets of my family’s past. And now, as a seasoned professional with undergraduate and Master’s degrees in history and social studies, I’m able to bring a unique perspective to every research project.
My area of expertise lies at the intersection of Texas History and Post-Civil War Southern United States. It’s a fascinating region where the threads of past and present are woven together in complex patterns. But regardless of the specific topic or time period, my love for genealogy remains constant: I’m driven by a desire to help people connect with their heritage and uncover the hidden stories that make us who we are.