Meet the intern: Abbie Schaible is already making an impact at the Trust!

It’s back-to-school week, so now is the perfect time for the Trust to introduce our newest MSW intern.

Abbie Schaible is no stranger to the Trust; she’s been a dedicated participant in many of our community engagement initiatives. Abbie has been active with the Natrona Council for Safety and Justice and serves on the board of Thrive Together Initiative. She’s joined the work of the Youth Mental Health Collective and recently pitched in to help coordinate and facilitate the Youth Takeover Week.

Her internship started earlier this month, and she’ll be with us through the school year. We asked Abbie a few questions to get to know her better and introduce her to our friends and partners.

First, tell us a little about yourself personally.

I’m a 28-year-old Latina who grew up in Casper – I would say born and raised but technically I was born during a road trip! I was raised by my Nana, who gave me so much strength and love, while also learning valuable lessons from my parents. My upbringing was a little unconventional, but it taught me resilience, compassion, and the importance of community. I’ve been fortunate to learn from many incredible leaders in this community, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. My hope is to offer that same mentorship and encouragement to others, especially those navigating difficult circumstances.

Tell us about your education journey and how you plan to use your degree.

I’m pursuing a degree in social work with the goal of working in the macro world; focusing on policy, advocacy, and creating systemic change. I believe strongly in uplifting youth voices and building community driven solutions. My education, paired with the hands-on work I’m doing now, will help me continue building bridges between lived experience and the systems that shape people’s lives.

What made you choose this path?

I’ve always been passionate about supporting people who are often overlooked – especially at-risk youth and those impacted by systems like reentry or child welfare. My own life experiences, along with the guidance of so many amazing mentors in this community, showed me the power of having someone who believes in you. I hope to be that same mentor for others, and to help amplify voices that deserve to be heard.

What do you expect to learn during your time at the Trust?

I’ve worked with individuals from the Trust in multiple ways, and I’m so excited to continue learning from their expertise in philanthropy. I’m eager to see how initiatives are prepared, finalized, and reflected upon, and to understand the process behind thoughtful, community driven giving. I never imagined I’d be in a position like this, and I’m honored to keep asking for community perspective and youth voice. My goal is to not only learn from those at the Trust, but also to ask thoughtful questions and learn from the individuals and community we serve.

When you are not working or studying, what do you do to relax and find joy?

I usually love to stay busy and invest my time into volunteering. My friends bring me so much joy and they’ve become the version of family I always imagined one would feel. I also love creative outlets like interior design, making macramé pieces, candle-making, and thrifting.