HURLEY -- Abbey Hallberg graduated from college in May and, like many grads she has whopping dreams for her future.

To make the world a better place to live in -- that's her career goal. And she's started her work right here in Iron County.

In June, Hallberg began her yearlong service as an AmeriCorps VISTA for Iron County. As a VISTA, or volunteer in service to America, Hallberg's task is to draft and implement youth programs here.

So far she's created a plan to carry out President Barack Obama's United We Serve initiative throughout Iron and Gogebic counties, and began contributing to the Gogebic-Iron Range's Next Generation Initiative to attract and retain young people. She'll continue work on these projects and develop additional projects throughout the year.

"There were some parameters I have to work within, but I really got to form my own ideas, then mold them with people in the county when I came here," she says.

For the full story, pick up a copy of our print edition or subscribe online. Click here for more details.