Non-Secure Placements

As my year of service comes to a close, one last community check-in

I've been feeling all sorts of nostalgia lately, especially since my last blog post corresponds with my last month of service with Good...

After a loss and a gift, I am rebuilding my trust in God

I just went on my second-to-last retreat with Good Shepherd Volunteers, our silent spirituality retreat.

My year of service has shown me the many facets of social justice work

I've been passionate about justice work ever since I took my first criminal justice class in my junior year of high school. My teacher reall

Making bracelets with the boys was my first breakthrough to relationship

The first few days on the job at Barbara Blum Residence, I remember feeling lost. I started out as a youth development counselor...

Thinking existentially at the 'gates of Hope'

I've been thinking a lot: contemplating what I've learned this year and reflecting on what I thought this year would be; comparing where...

The importance of meaningful relationships and empathy

One thing I have noticed recently is that my mindset is heavily influenced by others throughout the day. They can be good experiences...

The unexpected guides me to a whole new social justice mission

I was under the impression growing up that women made the money in the house and dads stayed at home. My mom worked a 9-5 job doing...

Seeking simplicity, in New York of all places

Let's just say I've never thought of myself as a minimalist — and that's what I thought simplicity was: a lack of resources and physical...

'I got you': Three little words pack a powerful punch, if you mean them

I've been at my service site for four months now, and I've already learned so much about trauma-informed care, the juvenile justice system..

Community Is Powerful

I grew up on a street where I knew every single one of my neighbors. My best friends were only a few yards away, and there were block...

Apathy Informed Care

The world of social work is a difficult one, and as such reminders to take care of ourselves are everywhere. In my interview process I...

The Strength of My Sisters

For my year of post-graduate service, I work at Rose House, non-secure placement, a rehabilitative home for adjudicated girls ages 13 to...

My Communities

In GSV, the tenet of community is practiced and strengthened consistently. We talk about how we can support our community members and...