A 'Life-Giving' Experience

After becoming a regular volunteer last August (2020), I was so excited to get more involved in Hospitality House and be able to see the work that they do. Within a few weeks, I received the email saying they were no longer able to accept volunteers from ASU due to COVID. I thought that was it-- my time was already over. However, during this time I had remembered the Kitchen and Pantry staff talk about their interns and telling me that I should apply, as I am a Nonprofit Organizations minor. So without any knowledge about the Spring semester and the endless possibilities that it could bring I applied to be a part time intern, and it has absolutely been one of the best experiences I have ever had.

Although I have not had the time or experience as some of the other interns have, I do feel that I have been able to learn a lot and meet some of the most wonderful people. The clients, the staff, my fellow interns, and the volunteers for the meals! I honestly can say it has been the first time in a while that I have felt SO encouraged, so supported and heard and it has been beyond life changing.

One of my biggest takeaways from this experience is to pour your entire heart out into the relationships that you create and the things that are LIFE-GIVING. I'm talking about the ones that you didn't know existed and the ones that you didn't have to think twice about or go out of your way for. I feel blessed to have been able to meet and now know people that are so easy to love and how to spread and embrace real joy (and know that it is attainable every! single! day! ).

Like I said in the YouTube video (and if I haven't made it obvious already), I have gained a new love for people. I had no idea that something so simple could mean so much. I also had no idea that such short time in this organization could teach me so much. I am so so sad for my time as an intern to end, but the thought of having the next group come in and

be able to experience what I have is another type of joy I cannot contain. Thank you Hospitality House for your WONDERFUL staff, clients, and interns, and for all of the light you have brought into my life, I can't imagine having spent my internship anywhere else.

~ Lauren Anderson

Communication Sciences and Disorders Major

Nonprofit Organizations Minor

Class of 2021