by Angelica Castolo (Georgia State University Intern)
Since 1980, Central OAC has been growing, all thanks to the guests we help. Many of our guests come in seeking help, thanks to others who previously sought help at Central OAC. Many of our guests are grateful for the services Central OAC can provide, and instead of only just receiving services, they decide to love thy neighbor and pass along the work being done at Central OAC. However, that is not where the love stops.
The love for helping others continues to grow as our work spreads. The staff works hard to find new ways to help as many people as possible. Some examples are partnering with Mercy Care to provide in-house physicals and referrals, adding an Advocacy Coordinator to advocate, whether at the capitol or with other organizations, curating unique workshops for job readiness, creating Alison’s Boutique to provide work clothing, and having monthly events to bring our guests together to relax and have fun. The love from Central OAC never stops and continues to grow.
One way I have shown my love is by translating. Central OAC encounters many different types of people from different backgrounds. Every now and then, we encounter Spanish speakers. As a Spanish speaker myself, I help those guests by searching for resources that best suit their needs. One example I remember is when I was having car trouble and our Program Director called me to see if I was available to translate. Since I was waiting for an update, I gladly said yes to get my mind off my car troubles. I was asked to translate for a guest who needed help to receive the necessary services. Although it was hard because I was not in person, the guest was able to check if he had mail. The guest eventually returned, and I was able to explain the ID process to him in person, and he was able to receive it.
Although I have only worked at Central OAC for about five months as a Social Work Intern, I have noticed all these examples within those five months. I have also asked many guests how they found us, and almost always, the answer is from another guest. Central OAC not only gives love but also receives it every day. I am grateful to be a part of this amazing organization and hope to see it grow even more.