1.
I had the privilege to volunteer at New Community Church located in Chicago
Illinois. This church sits in the very middle of poverty and violence.
2.
In this community there is absolutely no place where the elderly can go to
commune with each other. Every Wednesday the pastor of this church reaches
out to the elderly in the community. He specifically opens the doors of the
church from 8am until 2pm, which allows them to come for breakfast or lunch. In
the midst of preparing breakfast, I started to think about how to approach the
individuals without "stepping on their toes". I reflected on the
concept of Ageism. I became nervous because I started to think of the negative
stereotypes specifically about the elderly. I wondered if some of them were
going to be mean, frail, dependent, etc. I didn't want to seem overly helpful
because I also learned that majority of them likes the feeling of
"independence".
3.While
volunteering at the church I realized that it was other individuals there, who
volunteer every week. I got the opportunity to speak with one of them. He was a
manager of a bank in the downtown area. As we conversed he expressed that he
was from poverty-stricken neighborhood. The thought of him being from there
would have never crossed my mind because of his appearance. He also expressed
his happiness about the program because it's an outlet for his mom. As we
further discussed his success, he stated, "At a young age, I realized
there is more to life, so I made a pact with myself to work hard". From
this conversation I instantly gained the inspiration and motivation to work
hard for everything that I want and need in this life.
4.
The longer I stayed to volunteer, the more I seen the effect that this church
has on the community. This church provides, not only food meals that some of
them might be lacking, but it provides a place for "freedom and
safety". Most of the elderly in this neighborhood are often scared to
come out because they fear what could happen to them. This program allows them
the sense of confidence to come outside of their home and enjoy each other. The
potential effect that this church can have on this community is outstanding.
The people in this neighborhood will see what is being done and could possibly
want more from it.
5.
As I reflect on this assignment I have become more open-minded to do different
things. Although I am an outgoing person, volunteering was one of the things I
was not accustomed to. Having the opportunity to see the neighborhood and to
witness what they were going through made me realize that I am very blessed.
No, I did not always I have what I wanted, but I had the things I needed.
Speaking with the other volunteer also gave me the determination to chase my
dreams. I understand that some of the poverty stricken neighborhoods lack many
resources, but as people it is our duty to give back. This experience allowed
me to as myself, "When I die, what will they say about me? Will the works
that I've done, be enough to help someone?"
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