I’m a senior at American University studying international relations and law. I’m hoping to go to law school next year and pursue human rights law.
I was looking for a new place to volunteer regularly, and I felt that Thrive was the perfect place to give back to a city that’s provided me with so many amazing experiences over the years.
I love Thrive! I really enjoy the time I spend there each week. I feel like I tell everyone I know about how much I love volunteering there. I’ve even gotten some of my friends from school to volunteer with me!
I love getting to know the clients. It’s a great feeling when they recognize you and you start to really get to know them beyond “hello.”
I’ve had a few long talks with one of our regular clients who is in her 80’s. I look forward to her visits as she often shares intimate stories with me, and offers advice. She has an amazing life story and it’s really hard to see all the difficulties she’s facing so late in life. But her positivity and light-hearted attitude is truly inspiring. She’s always making me laugh.
I’m very impressed with the variety of comprehensive services that Thrive offers given their relatively small staff, and limited space.
I think Thrive’s Real Opps program is phenomenal. It’s a great way for those with large gaps in their employment history to get back into the workforce, something that really isn’t easy to do.
I would like to see Thrive offer a more comprehensive substance abuse recovery program.
I would like for DC to offer more services and outreach for those who are both homeless and struggling with mental illness.