Aim to bring new energy to council

Cedar Rapids and the west side has been my home my entire life.

After getting involved in servant leadership after college, I started reaching out to my representatives with hopes of engaging them in the conversation. When I didn't see their presence on these important issues in our community or even get a response from them, I decided I would come to them.

So I started attending City Council meetings and I realized my values and myself were not currently represented. I became determined to change this.

After reaching out to my community, I realized I wasn't the only one experiencing this. That wasn't acceptable to me and I knew I had the drive and the passion to change the conversation.

Now is the time for a new generation to get involved and invest in our future.

I am an IT analyst by trade, but a servant leader by choice, whether I'm advocating for women's rights, civil liberties, protections for unions, foster children or sustainability. I have a huge heart for Cedar Rapids and aim to bring a new energy to the table and shape Cedar Rapids to be a vibrant town responsive to people's needs.

I am confident that my passion and drive will help bring about a welcoming and inclusive environment that attracts better jobs and encourages people to invest in Cedar Rapids for both their work and home. I believe in being an advocate for the people of my city and showing up for them.

' Ashley Vanorny is a candidate for Cedar Rapids City Council, District 5