Meet the Neighbors

Brought to you by Bridges Senior Living Advisors, Custer Federal State Bank, and EZ Kitchens

For Brenda Jochum, Kearney has always felt like home. Born in Kearney and raised between there and Axtell, she’s been rooted in the community for decades. She graduated from Axtell High School in 1988, but most of her life has revolved around Kearney. From church and school activities to business connections and lifelong friendships, it’s the community that shaped her.

Brenda met her husband while attending the University of Nebraska at Kearney. They've now been married for 25 years and have spent their entire married life in Kearney, raising their two children here. Their son, Zach, is 24 and works for Fast Forward, while their daughter, Katelynn, is 21 and studying elementary education at UNL. Brenda’s husband works remotely for Boys Town, and she is a proud solopreneur running her own business, Strengths Connection, where she helps people grow through coaching and development.

Why did they stay in Kearney all these years? For Brenda, the answer is simple: family, faith, friendships, and opportunity. “It was the perfect place to raise our family,” she says. Over time, that foundation has only deepened as she continues to stay involved and connected with her community.

Brenda’s favorite part about life in Kearney is the everyday familiarity. “One of my favorite aspects of calling Kearney home for decades is the familiar faces I encounter everywhere I go,” she said. “Whether at the grocery store, a restaurant, or a community event, the warm recognition and genuine conversations create a sense of belonging that's irreplaceable.”

She finds joy in the small things, catching up with friends at local coffee shops like Baristas, Kitt’s, or Penny Roasters. She enjoys dining at her go-to restaurants including Suwannee, Cunningham’s, and Good Evans, and loves exploring hidden gems like the Indigo Bungalow. Brenda also appreciates her neighborhood near Elks Country Golf, where burger nights at the Elks Lodge add an extra touch of local charm to their routine.

Over the years, Brenda and her family have remained active in their church community, finding purpose through service and connection. More recently, Brenda has become more involved with the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, which she says opened her eyes to a new side of the community. “Meeting business owners, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders has given me a fresh perspective on what makes Kearney special beyond my familiar circles,” she shared.

When asked to describe Kearney in one word, Brenda chose Connected. That single word reflects decades of shared history, everyday encounters with familiar faces, and the powerful support system that Kearney continues to offer.

As she reflects on raising a family here, Brenda is grateful for the strong sense of community. “There are so many ways to get involved through the schools, youth programs, local events, and a strong faith community. It’s a town that supports families and shows up when it matters.”

Brenda Jochum’s story is a beautiful reminder of what makes Kearney feel like home. Not just for a season, but for a lifetime.