05/22/2026
I was honored to have the opportunity to attend the senior banquet this evening and recognize this graduating senior’s contributions to the veteran community here in Custer County.
Before my arrival in August 2023, Serenitey Crofford identified a shortfall in services available to veterans and their families and decided to take action. She organized a fundraiser to support local veterans, and shortly after I arrived, a check was presented to me at the 4H banquet.
At that time, I shared with her that I would be establishing a fund specifically to assist widows and widowers of veterans; a vulnerable demographic with limited available resources. While we are able to assist veterans with VA claims and had grant funding available for veterans themselves, support for surviving spouses was extremely limited.
Serenitey didn’t stop there. Over the last two and a half years, she has organized two additional fundraisers, assisted at outreach events, and has had a tremendous impact in our community.
Because of her efforts, we have been able to purchase a stove, provide tires, build accessibility ramps, contribute to a foundation repair, assisted with utility bills, and are currently assisting with a roof repair, along with many other projects. All of this happened because a young woman, whose empathy and compassion exceeded her young age, recognized a need and cared enough to make a difference.
You can fake caring, but you can’t fake showing up.
Serenitey has consistently shown up. She has led by example and has been a beacon for her peers to emulate.
Congratulations on your graduation, Serenitey. I wish you nothing but success in all of your future endeavors.
❤️🎓
