by Bella Ragone, Georgia State University Intern
As we near the end of the year and reflect on what we have accomplished, what lies ahead, and what we are grateful
for, I find myself thinking most about my time spent at the OAC. Although I have only served as a student intern for two months, I have learned and experienced so much alongside fellow students, dedicated volunteers and staff, and our incredible guests. Everyone involved at the OAC at every level has already made an incredible impact on my own personal journey.
During one of my first weeks as an intern, I had the pleasure of attending the birthday party of a regular guest who had recently got her own apartment. During this celebration, I got to know this guest better and was shown the fruits of all the hard work that OAC staff and the guest put in to accomplishing this goal together. For many of our guests, this goal seems a long ways away, but I remind them in my small intake room that they showed up and are doing the work to get themselves there. As much as I hear guests thanking us for providing services, we are also thanking and celebrating them for showing up and working towards our common goal of overcoming and preventing homelessness. I’m excited when I can recognize guests that I have worked with who return to pick up their IDs and take their next steps. It warms my heart to get to know them, share laughs, and see their progress despite all the challenges thrown their way.
This year, I am grateful that I get the opportunity to build community amongst my neighbors and play a role in maximizing the potential of every guest that seeks services at the OAC. I think we should all be looking for ways to connect with our communities and make a difference in the lives of those we share this city with. The threats of winter weather, unstable housing, and food insecurity loom in the coming months. As we close out the year, I encourage everyone with the means to do so to get involved and look for opportunities to strengthen connections with everyone around you. Practicing gratitude has taught me to celebrate all wins, big or small, for myself and for others. Look out for your neighbors and get to know their stories. Celebrate them, and they’ll celebrate you back.