The PULSE participants make this year an exceptional one. I think the people really are the best part of my experience here. My housemates especially have been a source of fun, laughter, adventure, and support.
Chaska Yoder always finds herself involved in things she is passionate about. Originally from Plain City, Ohio, Chaska is passionate about engaging people where they are. While studying to receive her undergraduate degree from Eastern Mennonite University in Virginia, Chaska had the opportunity to get involved in a variety of organizations on and off campus. Currently in Pittsburgh, Chaska is serving her PULSE year with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Pittsburgh. Her role through Habitat is as the Community Outreach and Development Fellow, where she spends her days connecting with faith groups and other organizations in the community to engage people in the work that Habitat is doing. They are working to educate the public about the importance of safe and affordable housing. When Chaska isn’t out in the community, you might find her drinking coffee at Tazza D’Oro, walking the Carnegie Museums with her housemates, or spending a Saturday playing board games and going on a run with friends.
What do you love about Pittsburgh?
I love the size and energy of this city. Pittsburgh is large enough to have the perks of a bustling city (tons of restaurants, cultural events, places to explore) and still small enough to have a hometown, welcoming vibe. It’s been easy to meet people, to network, and to feel like I’m a part of this place. At this point in time, Pittsburgh is garnering attention for its emerging art and music scene as well as its environmental initiatives and amount of green space. It’s exciting to live in a place that’s realizing its incredible potential for good.
What is the best part of the PULSE experience?
The PULSE participants make this year an exceptional one. I think the people really are the best part of my experience here. My housemates especially have been a source of fun, laughter, adventure, and support.
What is something about Pittsburgh that has surprised you?
The friendliness of the people here surprised me at first. I guess it’s that “small town vibe” thing.
How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Different people connected to PULSE have challenged and inspired me to live with “open hands” and to learn how to live better in the present moment. Though I’m still a planner, and though I haven’t thrown all of my goals to the wind, I find myself living with a greater ability to be spontaneous, generous, and content with unknowns. Saying goodbye to detailed timelines hasn’t been a practice in apathy but rather a practice in trust.
Story by Anna Wildermuth, PULSE Alumna ’10-’11, ’11-’12.
Read more stories about the Participant experience with PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.