National Honor Society brushes up Nebraska

Many of us know the need for change in North Omaha neighborhoods, but how can we make a difference? MN’s National Honors Society (NHS) teamed up with other local organizations, on August 14 and 15, to repaint North Omaha homes for Brush Up Nebraska.

NHS Co-Sponsor Amanda Vandervort has been involved in this program for the past five years and counting.

“Brush Up Nebraska helps the community by helping others who are in need.” Vandervort said. “It helps elderly and low-income homeowners maintain their homes.”

Work to restore the paint-chipped homes began the night before the actual project took place.

“The most challenging part was the prep work the night before, we lined the house with plastic and scraped paint.” Vandervort said.

Senior, Tuner Eakins directed efforts to clear the garden beds and yard. Eakins had his own lawn care business this summer.

“(The cleared year) Adds a nice touch to the new paint,” Eakins said.

Student Vice President and Senior Sarah Suh has been leading the event since the end of last school year.

“Everyone in NHS brought what they could, whether that meant finding supplies at home or going to the store to buy what was needed.” Suh said.

Not only did MN students paint homes, but they also made connections with North Omaha homeowners. Homeowner Leon Thomas shared stories about his family and his life as a teacher.

“I’ll never forget this.” Thomas said.

Students didn’t only get to know Thomas, but Thomas took the time to get to know each volunteer working on his home.

“It was a very rewarding moment when we could step back and see all of the work we had done for Mr. Thomas.” Suh said.

Brush up Nebraska is just one volunteer event NHS has been a part of. NHS will continue to give back to the community and make a difference throughout the year.