Over the summer, I’ve attended various online meetings with Community Renewal Society (CRS) staff as well as staff and volunteers from other organizations with a social justice focus. Although each of these meetings was important, there is one meeting in particular that stands out to me. This was a meeting that was hosted by CRS staff in light of recent acts of gun violence in Chicago. During this meeting, a coworker shared with all the meeting participants his gratitude for his breath and ability to be present at the meeting and in a space that welcomes conversation and change. I find that from this meeting and my internship overall, I also have a newly developed gratitude, not only for the blessing of breath but also for the opportunities CRS has provided me. I’ve recognized that while advocacy may be demanding at times, it is a privilege to be able to help others because not everyone who wishes to can.
When thinking about the growth I’ve made since starting my internship, I believe that I am more confident in my thoughts and actions. From brainstorming sessions with my site supervisor and coworkers to writing posts and newsletter content to be published, I am starting to learn the value of my own voice. Yet, given the encouraging environment at CRS, I know that I can be firmer in my beliefs and values and how I uphold them. CRS challenges people to be better listeners, speakers, advocates, and activists, including myself. This being said, I know I have a lot more growth to do. CRS has taught me to fight for what is just and that even in times of despair, I can turn to others around me and my faith to find peace and hope; to heal, gather myself, and continue pushing for a better world. On this note, my fellowship has also posed the question to me “What does a better world look like?” For now, all I can say is that I am still searching for this answer!
I cannot believe that my internship has come to a close and that my CAPS fellowship will additionally be completed by the end of this month. Time flew by! I can sincerely say that even though my official internship is over at CRS, this experience will stay with me forever. The people I have met, the skills I have gained, and the knowledge and lessons I have learned have impacted how I see myself, communities, and the world. I have been offered a position to remain on CRS’ Development and Communications Team this school year, which I have accepted, and I am excited about what I will further learn and the new possibilities for growth I will encounter. Too, I am eager to work on some tasks and projects that I started this summer but was not able to fully finish. I am starting again at CRS in the first week of the 2022 fall semester. Community Renewal Society, here I come (again)!
– Tyla Gross, Community Renewal Society