The Light in the Tunnel

During my service at my host site at Aria CHC, I have been learning about different programs and have been working with almost everyone here. At the beginning of my service, I started working closely with Enhanced Care Management (ECM) and Expanding Covid-19 Vaccines (ECV). The ECV program would provide services at ARIA events, and food pantries by providing COVID-19 kits, resources, and information. One specific thing that caught my attention was the food pantry. When I started assisting with ECV, I started bagging food and attending the events. During the food distribution events, we must conduct surveys and make sure everyone receives their food. During these months we have faced challenges with staff and the organization. The ECV program sadly ended. When the program ended, I was placed as the lead for food pantry. It has been challenging but with assistance from staff and supervisors they have been guiding me through the process. I have made some errors, and I have learned from them. I have fully run the first food pantry, and this month will be the second one. We are still learning along the way to make sure we truly fulfill the pantry needs and continue to assist families in the communities. The part that I enjoy about the food distribution is to see that there are families and we assist them. It warms my heart whenever I am there listening to their stories and how beneficial food is to their families. I have seen and heard amazing stories although it is a hard job, we are learning about our way to improve as organization and staff. As for the ECM Program, I am continuing to work closely with the team, they have guided me on how to do their eligibility and I am fully trained to do this for them. Since we are short staffed, I have accommodated them as much as possible. I have been enjoying the host site, Aria has taught many things about myself and career. As an AmeriCorps member, it has been a big part to continue to be flexible as possible for any opportunity to assist the host site.