Once again students and course instructors gathered to learn from our community partners about serving effectively and respectfully through GW courses. Students posed important questions about managing their time effectively, learning to use public transportation, and eventually, how service opportunities can create opportunities to work together with equity - across race, gender, and socio-economic status.
Community Partner Panelists:
- Joy McIntyre, Director, Guest Experience DC Central Kitchen
- Martha Wolf, Volunteer Manager, Miriam's Kitchen
- Judy Oversby, Volunteer Coordinator, Francis on the Hill
- Susan LeLacheur, Board Member, Francis on the Hill
Panelists emphasized that they look forward to building authentic relationships and not just take advantage of "free labor." They appreciate that we want to respect their time, but they enjoy opportunities to talk with students about social issues and what they are learning in class. They like getting to know students' skills and previous experience so they can connect them more intentionally to their organizations work.
Student panelists all had multiple experiences with community engagement through courses, including good examples of "next steps" after service through a course. This includes becoming a student leader of service projects through the Nashman Center and proposing a new project with a community partner for social innovation funding from the Nashman Center.
- Edgar Zuniga
- Emily Jacobson
- Maurianna Kowalski
