Hello! Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Robert L. Watkins and I am the Digital Communications Coordinator at Thrive DC. I have multiple degrees and years of digital experience, but what I pride myself on is being a good human being; I was raised in a small town and I take those values with me everywhere I go. 

What made you want to work with the homeless?

There is something special about helping people that have nowhere else to go. You know, no matter who you are or where you grew up, there has been a time where you felt like there was no one to go to for help. Now, I get to say I help people in those situations for a living and I take pride in that.  

What do you like best about Thrive DC?

Thrive DC is special to me because it is a phenomenal group of genuine individuals dedicated to helping others from all walks of life in various ways. It is one of the most inclusive environments I have ever experienced. 

What's an awesome moment you've had so far?

On my second day, I helped with food distribution all morning and it was an enlightening experience. Our clients were genuinely appreciative with soft smiles and even better is the fact that the food being served was fresh and healthy for them. Everyone knew each other by name, it was quite a family experience. 

What are you passionate about?

You know if you asked me that question a year ago, I wouldn't have a definite answer. Now, I have realized I am passionate about helping people, protecting our wildlife, cleaning our oceans, and most importantly teaching our youth to do the same. 

What's your favorite breakfast?

Breakfast for dinner, plain and simple. A sausage, egg, and cheese bagel with hashbrowns -- doesn't get any better.

What's a cool and interesting fact about yourself?

I backpacked almost 100 miles on the “El Camino De Santiago” in Spain in 10 days. There is no better way to learn a foreign language and it's culture than to experience it all first-hand while walking from town to town speaking with local individuals. It was my first international experience and it will certainly not be my last.