I believe that everyone is deserving of care, love and the chance to be seen. This belief has shaped my world since I was a young girl. Through volunteering with local shelters, I've had the opportunity to offer support and care to many people experiencing hardships. I've been able to show people they still matter to someone. I believe we all need just one person to see us.
My experiences working with at-risk youth and incarcerated individuals have further deepened my understanding of resilience and the importance of second chances. In these spaces, I recognize how crucial it is to show up with empathy, active listening skills, and zero judgement. One of the best experiences in working with these populations has been my time at my internship. Currently, I am finishing up my internship at Cook County Corrections. I work with young men between the ages of 18-25. I've been able to create a judgement-free zone, which has helped build my rapport with the young men. I've been able to introduce new programs, which has allowed them to express their emotions in a more positive light. I've introduced the young men to coloring and other art projects. We've also done a nutritional lesson plan. The young men that I have met during my time at Cook County have some of the most unmatched humor and intelligence. Some of these young men just need someone in their corner and to understand what positive support can look like. I've learned a lot at this site, which I hope to take everywhere else I go.
I carry my values everywhere I go and striving to make a difference within my community. I continue to approach everyone with respect, empathy and understanding. We truly don't know what someone else is going through in life. I try to be mindful of that when I interact with individuals on a daily basis. We all have a story to tell.