It is rewarding to be a part of an organization that shows their passion for community so loudly. As my practicum experience comes to a close, I am beginning to reflect on my journey as an undergraduate student and practicum student. Through my practicum, I have learned what it takes to run a not-for-profit organization and the obstacles that come in order for it to be successful. Importantly, I learned the power of community as well.

 

Without the Jacksonville community, it would be difficult to have large turnouts for events like their Buddy Walk, World Golf Classic, and Inaugural Light Way Gala; all big events the DSAJ hosts in order to raise awareness for Down syndrome. Following the Buddy Walk, the DSAJ was able to raise a record breaking  $381,110 -- a huge achievement where the DSAJ will continue to invest into their current and upcoming programs.

 

At my time as a Program and Communications intern at the DSAJ, I was able to assist Sarah in their therapy program -- a program that provides free physical, occupational, and ABA therapy to members of the DSAJ. I collaborated with Sarah to communicate with local therapy providers to renew contracts for the following fiscal year and recruit new providers as well. Through this program, the DSAJ continues to provide these therapy services to hundreds of individuals with Down syndrome and their families without them having to worry about the financial costs of therapy. 

 

With my education in Family, Youth, and Community sciences, I see where intervention in communities is important in solving community issues. Since interning at the DSAJ, I see how the organization is needed in the community as it continues to serve thousands of families in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia annually.  I also understand the power of community as it becomes a voice for advocacy for individuals who may not be able to advocate for themselves. Going forward, I would like to implement this knowledge in my future career where I plan to become a nurse -- hoping to become an advocate for patients everyday.