In a lot of good ways, this experience taught me many life lessons. It made me realize how much potential I have as an individual. I got to try so many things at the shelter – registration, food service, dormitory organization and animal care. I learned how giving people are. I found out that the biggest equalizers are storytelling, compassion and empathy – they can bring people from completely different worlds together. Most important, I confirmed my belief that we all have a role in enacting change. The relationship between people in nonprofit organizations can spark significant change in communities. Together, we really can change tomorrow. And make it a reality. I provided sympathetic ears, smiles, and hugs, to residents at the shelter to assist on their recovery.
Whether it was serving meals, helping them get their belongings together, or answering their questions - my heart melted when I saw I had uplifted their spirits. My best memory was when I helped a shelter resident pack up all her belongings to move into her new home. After that, I went to lunch and, when I returned, she was there waiting for me. She didn't want to leave without giving me a hug and a thank you. I hope these memories will endure for them, as they will for me. It felt really good to know that people appreciated the small things. My piece of advice for future disaster relief team members -- it would be DO IT and be ready for anything! I promise it is one of those things you can go into with high expectations and your experience there will still surpass every expectation.