http://www.supportkind.org

Kids in Need of Defense (KIND)

Social Work Volunteer

June 2021 • Fort Bliss, TX

What I liked

I loved the staff team I got to work with. They were very supportive of each other and valued mental and emotional health as they worked in an often heavy environment. They took time to debrief and check in with each other at the end of every day. Each individual was so passionate about the work and strove to provide the best service to each child. There was a very clear common goal and the team worked so well together in a very dysfunctional government shelter.

What I wish was different

Advice

One of the paralegals told me she knew it was a good thing that she still felt sadness and anger at the things she witnessed and the stories she listened to because it meant she wasn't burnt out and numbed to the situation. I would tell other volunteers to enter experiences like these with a similar mindset. It's impossible and even a good thing that you can't completely compartmentalize because we have to bring our humanity when working with victims and survivors of trauma and inhumane conditions.
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Legal Intern

January - June 2019 • Baltimore, MD

What I liked

I really enjoyed having the opportunity to intern at KIND, and shadow amazing social workers, paralegals, attorneys and overall inspiring people!

What I wish was different

The only thing I wish had been different was the parking. Being that the office was located in Baltimore city, parking was my only issue.

Advice

Look for something you're passionate about and interested in. Interning while in school can be hard and challenging, but if you are looking into places that align with your interests and passions, you will want to go in and you'll be eager to learn and grow.
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