Shane Kennedy

Hometown: Melbourne Beach, FL

Educational background: Bachelor of Science in Sociology with an English & Screenwriting Minor from Jacksonville University

Host Site: Hubbard House

What is your title and role at your host site? I will be the Youth Prevention Facilitator at  Hubbard House. In this position I will be developing Relationship Abuse Prevention (RAP) curriculum and presenting the program in Duval County public schools. The goal of RAP is to prevent youths from becoming victims or perpetrators of violent relationships, and I will be promoting this mission through education and active engagement.

Why did you join AmeriCorps/National Health Corps? I was recommended by a professor to join AmeriCorps and after being offered a position with the National Health Corps I knew that I had been given an opportunity to change my life, as well as the lives of others. I believe that the National Health Corps will give me the skills and knowledge to make a difference in my community.

What are you hoping to gain from your year of service? I hope that after my service term ends I will have met an incredible group of other NHC members, experienced many humbling and eye-opening moments, made an extensive career and employment network, and planted a healthy seed in the hearts of Duval County youths.

What are your plans after AmeriCorps service? I would like to go back to Jacksonville University and get a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership or explore other graduate schools to further my Sociology degree.

Where do you envision yourself in 5 years? I will have a graduate degree and will be entering into my career in the field of human services. My experiences I had serving with the National Health Corps will open the door to a future of life-changing opportunities.