Andersons Choose Holdrege for Family & Future

For Joseph and Jaimee Anderson, returning to Holdrege wasn't part of the original plan. Like many young adults, they left their hometown to pursue education, careers, and new experiences.  

They returned for what was supposed to be a temporary stay when Jaimee’s dad was diagnosed with cancer. But during that time, they discovered that Holdrege offered exactly the kind of life they wanted for themselves and their growing family.

Today, both are thriving professionally while helping shape the future of their hometown.

Joseph graduated from Holdrege High School in 2015 and enlisted in the US Army as a tank crewman. During his military service, he rose to the rank of sergeant before receiving an honorable discharge. After returning to civilian life, he attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney before transferring to Nebraska Wesleyan University, where he earned an accounting degree.

While attending Nebraska Wesleyan, Joseph completed an accounting internship with General Dynamics. After returning to Holdrege, he joined Phelps Memorial Health Center, where he has worked in accounting for more than three years.

"One thing I enjoy most is knowing the work I do helps support an organization that serves our community every day," Joseph said.

Jaimee, a 2013 HHS graduate, pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational and Relational Communications with a business emphasis at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. During college, she served as president of Lambda Pi Eta and gained valuable retail and business experience working with The Buckle's women's denim buying team.

Following graduation, she worked at The Buckle as a product developer and then moved to Lincoln to work as an operations manager with Ellynne Bridal. After returning to Holdrege, Jaimee joined Adjacent Properties and now serves as Director of Operations, focusing on Adjacent Entertainment and Aligned Foundation.

In just two years, she has played a role in expanding the Holdrege Sun Theater and Event Venue, helped initiate the Thrive Childcare Center, and has supported historic property restoration efforts.

"This position has connected me to the community in a million ways," Jaimee said. "I am grateful every day!"

Supportive Community

Although both enjoyed growing up in Holdrege, neither expected to return permanently.

Their plans changed when Jaimee's father was diagnosed with cancer. They wanted to be close to help on the farm so he could recover. But as they settled back into the community, their perspective shifted.

"Having a child and experiencing Holdrege through an adult lens really helped solidify how amazing the area is for families," they said. "We have gained a real appreciation and admiration for the entrepreneurs, organizations and families that make Holdrege so wonderful."

They are now raising two young boys, and most of their family also lives in the area.

Both credit Holdrege's supportive environment for helping shape who they are today.

For Joseph, the community's encouragement became especially evident while serving in the military.

"During basic training and a deployment, I received strong support from my community through letters and care packages," he said. "Holdrege is a close-knit community where people take care of each other."

Jaimee recalls growing up surrounded by opportunities and encouragement.

"I have always been a busy body, enjoying being involved across multiple organizations and activities," she said. "I have always enjoyed the encouragement to be involved and try everything growing up. I think the vast community support for kids here is paramount to future success. We have wonderful educators, business owners, and mentors in Phelps County that really help kids feel like the sky is the limit."

One mentor who made a lasting impact on Joseph was longtime tennis coach Ray Ruybalid.

“Ray was always supportive, not just in an athletic sense, but in wanting you to become the best version of yourself,” Joseph said. “Although he didn’t overtly encourage me to return to Holdrege, he helped me recognize that the level of support I received there compared to other places I’ve lived was unmatched. That experience made me realize I wanted my sons to grow up in a community with that same kind of support.”  

Helping the Community Thrive

Today, the Andersons enjoy seeing Holdrege continue to evolve while maintaining its small-town character.

"We love that Holdrege has stayed rooted in small-town values while continuing to create opportunities for young families," they said.

They point to local entrepreneurs, restaurants, coffee shops, and community amenities as examples of the city's growth. Some of their favorite places are North Park and Veterans Park, where they enjoy spending time outdoors with their children.

Equally important is the quality of life they have found through local employers that value family and work-life balance.

In recent years, the Andersons have made a conscious effort to become more involved in shaping Holdrege's future.

Jaimee serves on the Board of Directors for the Iron Horse Arts District and contributes to planning efforts for events such as Haunted Holdrege and the Iron Horse Arts Gala. She is also active in Rotary. Through these roles, she has helped create memorable events and experiences that strengthen community connections and enhance quality of life.

Joseph also volunteers with Iron Horse Arts District initiatives and is passionate about supporting veterans and promoting mental health awareness.

Together, they believe Holdrege offers tremendous opportunities for young people.

“I think it’s important for young people to know that it's OK to want to experience life in the ‘big city,’ while also knowing that they can come back home and enjoy the safety, security and well-being in a small town,” Jaimee said. “The opportunities here are limitless, and I only see room for more entrepreneurs and change makers in Holdrege.”