“I work with a really awesome staff! They are great, talented, creative people who I know have my back. I also enjoy the opportunity to work with Northside kids and feel like I make an impact on their lives..” – Natalie Nagel
Natalie Nagel, a Western PA native from Allison Park, graduated from Grove City College with a degree in Political Science and minors in Sociology and Theater. During her college years, Natalie interned at a courthouse, law firm, and mentored girls at a summer camp. Natalie is passionate about arts and theater. She has participated in over 50 shows as a cast member, director, and crew member, and was nominated for an acting award at an international competition. Outside of these pursuits, Natalie loves to dance and play the flute. She is serving at Urban Impact.
Sam Weaver: What do you enjoy most about your nonprofit partnership?
Natalie Nagel: I work with a really awesome staff! They are great, talented, creative people who I know have my back. I also enjoy the opportunity to work with Northside kids and feel like I make an impact on their lives. Though I’ve worked with kids before, this is my first time mentoring in an urban environment, and it’s proven to be a rewarding experience. The best way to describe my nonprofit partnership is that it combines my three biggest passions- theater, youth and faith.
Sam: Describe a typical day at your nonprofit partnership.
Natalie: Every day is really different – I’m never bored! Some days I teach drama or improv classes to younger students, some days I work with the middle school or high school choirs, and other days I’m behind the scenes working on programs, talking with parents, and coordinating events.
Sam: What do you love about Pittsburgh?
Natalie: Being a Pittsburgh native, I’ve always really loved that people in Pittsburgh are so friendly and welcoming. There is such pride for the city! I can’t think of very many other cities where the people are so warm.
Sam: What is the most interesting/fun adventure you’ve had in Pittsburgh so far?
Natalie: It’s a tie between two: one was going to a Penguins game because I really like watching hockey, and Pittsburghers get really into their sports, so there’s always a lot of energy at games. The other was going to the strip district, because there is a lot of cool culture, shops, delicious food (shout out to Peace Love and Little Donuts!) and things to explore. It’s also close to the Northside!
Sam: What is your favorite “family meal” recipe for the house?
Natalie: Flatbread pizza with homemade dough!
Story by PULSE Participant Sam Weaver.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: