As I round out my first month of service as an AmeriCorps National member for Habitat Humanity Riverside, I’ve begun to establish a great sense of clarity; clarity about the mission of Habitat for Humanity, clarity concerning my role in this organization, and clarity regarding my purpose both personally and professionally. Much of this initial growth and clarity has been facilitated by the wonderful people I’ve had the opportunity to work with, from volunteers and families on our A Brush with Kindness projects to my fellow AmeriCorps members.

Thus far, I’ve had the opportunity to transform the exterior ofseveral mobile, and single family homes for families with disabled and elderly members. All of these families were extremely grateful for the assistance they received and it has allowed me to further understand the mission of Habitat for Humanity. As my term continues I hope to impact as many lives as possible through not only A Brush with Kindness projects, but also with our new builds and through spreading my positive energy and optimism with both volunteers and homeowners. I also hope to learn not only about the construction aspect of eliminating housing inequality but also about the process of selecting families, recruiting volunteers, and much more.

I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to learn and serve with Habitat for Humanity Riverside and I am looking forward to all the knowledge I will gain, connections I will make, and fun I will have this next year.