My experience at Save the Dunes has been such a formative experience thus far, despite having only started with the organization a week ago. Before solidifying my decision to participate in the CAPS Fellows program, I knew that I wanted an internship that paired with my love for nature. I discovered Save the Dunes through the CAPS program process, and it perfectly aligned with that value. On top of that, it offered so much more. Save the Dunes mission targets three “buckets”: conservation, advocacy, and community engagement. These are things I am learning more and more about every day, and things that I can say that I now have a greater appreciation for.

Part of why my experience has been so formative and valuable is due to the people I have met, their dedication to Save the Dunes and its mission and work. Everyone at the organization has had a connection in some way or another with the wonders and beauties nature has to offer. They have that connection to it, and I believe they use that connection and passion to drive their work. It is inspiring to see. On top of this, they have all been welcoming and ready and willing to offer help to me as a newbie. Answering any questions I might have, providing me with background information on the organization and its work, and defining “new-fangled” terminology for me. I feel as though I have already learned so much, despite only just starting. This is exactly what I was hoping to gain from this summer experience, and I know I will discover much more throughout the rest of my time with the organization.

Save the Dunes mission focuses on serving to protect and advocate for the Indiana Dunes, Lake Michigan, and other natural areas, and the amazing thing…the organization has a longstanding history with this mission. Since 1952, when Save the Dunes was established, a rock was formed. This rock is one with purpose, one that is sturdy, reliable, and not easily eroded by whatever elements are blown its way.

Despite my present connection to such an organization, I have always had a love and appreciation for the dunes and what they have to offer. I grew up by Lake Michigan and spent many a beach day down by the shore. I remember racing down the dunes, building some questionable and probably not structurally sound sand castles with my sister, and long hikes with my family. I have so many memories from my childhood shaped by these things. These are things I hope that other families can continue to enjoy and appreciate going far into the future. This is possible through the worthy work of organizations like Save the Dunes.

Throughout the rest of the summer, I hope to continue to learn, grow, thrive, and make connections in the environment in which Save the Dunes fosters (which I am certain I will, especially since I get to work in the amazing historic house – Barker House). So far, I have learned that even the smallest of tasks have their own meaning and contribute to the larger picture. I am looking forward to continuing to help with whatever projects I can and assisting with the amazing work the organization is involved in.

Isabelle Byrt, Save the Dunes

One of the biggest things I’ve learned so far is how much intentionality goes into youth development work. It’s not just about keeping students busy or supervised; it’s about building relationships, consistency, and trust. I’ve seen how small interactions like remembering a student’s name, asking about their day, and celebrating a small academic win can make a real difference in how students show up. At first, I underestimated how powerful those “small” moments could be, but now I see they are often the foundation of everything else.

Another part of my experience has been learning how teamwork operates in a structured youth organization.
I’ve had the chance to observe and work alongside staff members who are deeply committed to the mission. Whether it’s planning enrichment activities or managing the flow of a busy afternoon, I’ve noticed how communication and flexibility are key. There are moments when plans change quickly, and being able to adapt without losing focus on the students is something I’m actively learning.

This internship has also made me think more seriously about purpose and calling. I’ve been asking myself what kind of long-term impact I want to have, and being at By The Hand has pushed me to think about service in a more consistent and relational way. I used to think leadership meant being in charge or making big decisions, but here I’ve seen leadership in quieter forms like encouraging a student who is struggling, or helping create a safe space where young people feel seen and supported. That has challenged and expanded my understanding of what it means to lead.

In many ways, this experience connects directly to my academic and personal journey. As a student interested in fields like social work, law, and public service, I’m beginning to understand how early intervention and mentorship can shape someone’s entire trajectory. The work I’m doing now may feel small day to day, but I can see how it contributes to something larger, helping students build confidence, discipline, and hope for their futures.

There have also been moments of challenge. Some days require a lot of patience, especially when students are dealing with frustration or energy is high in the room. I’ve had to learn how to stay calm, how to redirect situations positively, and how to support without taking things personally. These moments have helped me grow not just professionally, but personally as well. Overall, this internship has helped me better understand the kind of environment I want to be part of in the future, one where service, education, and community come together. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn in real time and to contribute to something that is actively shaping young lives.

Angel Johnson, By The Hand Club for Kids

My first ever internship with the American Red Cross has been one of the most meaningful
learning experiences I have had so far as a college student and aspiring social worker. When I
first began my internship, I was excited about the opportunity, but I was also nervous. During my
first few days, everything seemed to move incredibly fast. There were countless acronyms to
learn, unfamiliar terminology, and an organizational structure that felt overwhelming at first. Early on during my training, I sometimes questioned whether I would be able to keep up with the pace of the work or fully understand the responsibilities that came with my role.

Fortunately, those feelings of uncertainty did not last long. What stood out to me almost
immediately was the support I received from my supervisor and coworkers. From my very first
day, they created an environment that was welcoming, patient, and encouraging. Instead of
expecting me to figure everything out on my own, they treated my internship as a genuine
learning experience. They consistently answered my questions, explained many acronyms, and
checked in to make sure I was adjusting well. Their support helped me become more comfortable in my role and reminded me that growth often comes from being willing to learn from others, rather than knowing all the answers.

As I became more familiar with Disaster Cycle Services and the mission of the American Red
Cross, I began to see the real impact this work has on individuals and families experiencing
crisis. In my role, I have had opportunities to assist with disaster response efforts, particularly
home fire cases throughout the Greater Chicago South area. One of my favorite aspects of the
internship has been interacting directly with clients and conducting damage assessments to
determine how the Red Cross can support them. These conversations are often taking place
during some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life, which makes empathy, active
listening, and effective communication especially important.

As a social work major, this experience has allowed me to practice many of the micro-level skills
I have learned in the classroom. Concepts that once existed only in textbooks now have
real-world applications. Whether I am listening to a client describe what they have lost, helping
them understand available resources, or connecting them with support services, I am gaining
practical experience that is helping me grow both professionally and personally. Seeing how
these skills can provide comfort and guidance during times of crisis has reinforced my desire to
pursue a career centered on helping others.

Beyond the direct service aspect of the internship, I have also learned a great deal about
professionalism and workplace dynamics. Every day presents opportunities to collaborate with
coworkers, communicate effectively, and adapt to changing situations. While there have certainly been challenges, such as missing a few calls when I was away from my Red Cross devices or navigating the realities of Chicago traffic, each obstacle has become an opportunity to learn and improve. These experiences have taught me the importance of responsibility, preparedness, and flexibility in professional settings.

One of the questions that many CAPS Fellows are encouraged to consider is how our
experiences connect to our sense of purpose and calling. This internship has helped me reflect
deeply on that question. Before beginning this role, I knew I wanted to become a social worker
because I wanted to help people. However, this experience has shown me that helping people
often happens in small but significant ways. Sometimes it means listening carefully. Sometimes
it means connecting someone with resources. Sometimes it simply means being present for a
person during a difficult moment. Through the Red Cross, I have seen how service can take
many forms, and each one has the potential to make a meaningful difference.

As I continue my internship, I hope to contribute to projects that create lasting benefits for the
organization, its volunteers, and the communities it serves. I want the work I complete this
summer to have an impact that extends beyond my time as an intern. Most importantly, I am
grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and serve alongside people who are deeply committed to helping others. This experience has strengthened my confidence, expanded my professional skills, and affirmed my belief that a career dedicated to service is the right path for me. I am excited to see where the rest of this journey leads and what additional lessons it will teach me about purpose, leadership, and serving others.

Tyrell Frieson, American Red Cross

When I first learned about Camp Lakeside, I immediately knew it was somewhere I wanted to be involved. A summer camp created for kids of all abilities, with a mission focused on equity, inclusion, and belonging, aligned so closely with the values that are important to me. Throughout my experiences in healthcare and service, I have developed a strong passion for advocating for people whose voices are not always heard or whose abilities are sometimes underestimated. Being able to spend my summer in a place where every child is valued for exactly who they are has been incredibly meaningful.

Before starting my internship, I expected to learn about planning activities, supporting campers, and being part of a team. While I have gained all of those skills, I have also learned so much more from the campers themselves. Camp Lakeside has shown me that true inclusion is about much more than simply allowing someone to participate. It is about creating a space where every person feels welcomed, respected, and like they truly belong.

One of my favorite parts of this experience has been seeing how much joy comes from creating
opportunities for everyone to be involved. Many people with disabilities experience barriers because of inaccessible environments, misconceptions, or assumptions about what they can and cannot do. At Camp Lakeside, the focus is not on limitations. Instead, the focus is on finding creative ways to support each camper and make sure everyone has the opportunity to have fun, build friendships, and create memories.

This experience has changed the way I think about advocacy. Advocacy does not always have to be a major action or a public statement. Sometimes it looks like listening, being patient, learning what someone needs, and helping others see a person beyond their disability. Working at Camp Lakeside has reminded me that small actions can make a lasting impact. A welcoming attitude and a willingness to understand others can completely change someone’s experience.

As a Health Sciences student on the Pre-PA track, this internship has connected deeply with my future goals in healthcare. I have always wanted a career where I can support and advocate for others, especially individuals who may face challenges having their needs recognized. Camp Lakeside has reinforced that caring for people is not only about knowledge and skills; it is about compassion, empathy, and recognizing the value of every individual.

One thing that has stood out to me this summer is how often people with disabilities are judged based on misconceptions rather than who they truly are. Camp Lakeside challenges those ideas by creating a place where kids can simply be kids. They can laugh, make friends, try new things, and experience the same moments of growth and connection as anyone else.

I am so grateful to be part of a community that reflects the values I hope to carry throughout my future career. My time at Camp Lakeside has strengthened my passion for inclusion and advocacy while helping me better understand my purpose: creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued. I look forward to continuing to learn from this experience and carrying these lessons with me long after the summer ends.

Grace Vaughn, Camp Lakeside

This summer, I have had the opportunity to serve as an intern with By The Hand Club for Kids, and it has already been one of the most meaningful experiences of my college journey. As someone who values service, leadership, and helping others reach their full potential, this internship has given me a chance to see firsthand how a caring community can make a lasting impact on young people and families. Each day has brought new opportunities to learn, grow, and reflect on my own purpose and calling.

Working at By The Hand has allowed me to contribute to an organization that is deeply
committed to supporting students academically, emotionally, and spiritually. Throughout the
summer, I have assisted with various activities, supported staff members, and helped create a
positive environment for students. Whether I am helping with programming, interacting with
students, preparing materials, or assisting with daily operations, I have learned that every task
plays an important role in the organization’s mission. Seeing the dedication of the staff and
volunteers has inspired me to approach my work with greater intention and care.

One of the most rewarding parts of this experience has been building relationships with the
students. Their energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm remind me why organizations like By The
Hand are so important. I have enjoyed getting to know the students and encouraging them as
they participate in activities and learn new skills. Even small interactions can make a difference.
A simple conversation, word of encouragement, or helping a student complete a task can help
build confidence and create a sense of belonging.

I often think about questions related to purpose and calling. This internship has encouraged me
to reflect on how my personal values connect with my future career goals. I have always been
passionate about helping others and creating positive change within my community. Through
this experience, I have seen how meaningful work can impact lives in ways that may not always
be immediately visible. It has reinforced my belief that success is not only measured by personal achievements but also by the ways we support and uplift others.

My experience at By The Hand has connected to many of the lessons I have learned through
my classes and leadership experiences. In school, I have studied the importance of community
engagement, service, and leadership. This internship has allowed me to put those concepts into
practice. Rather than simply reading about the importance of supporting others, I have had the
opportunity to witness it every day through the work being done at By The Hand. One thing that has surprised me is how much growth can happen in a relatively short period of time.

As the summer continues, I am excited to keep learning from my supervisors, coworkers, and
the students I serve. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of an organization that is making a real difference in the lives of young people. This experience has reminded me that purpose is often discovered through service, relationships, and a willingness to invest in others. I look forward to continuing this journey and carrying these lessons with me throughout my future career and leadership experiences.

Angel Johnson, By The Hand Club for Kids

It’s been just two weeks since I stepped into Jacob’s Ladder, in Chesterton, as a CAPS Fellow, and this experience is already shaping me in ways I didn’t expect. Walking through the doors, I’m reminded why I chose a path rooted in service, learning, and community. There’s something special about this place, something you can feel before you can fully explain it.

Jacob’s Ladder has a mission that resonates deeply with me: helping children reach their fullest potential through compassionate, evidence‑based therapy. Seeing that mission lived out in real time, in the patience of the therapists, the joy of the kids, and the trust of the families has been one of the most grounding parts of my fellowship so far.

My role here blends observation, creativity, and connection. I’m learning how to capture the moments that matter: the small victories, the breakthroughs, the smiles through photography and videography. It’s a privilege to document stories that reflect resilience and growth. Every image feels like a reminder that progress doesn’t always look big or loud; sometimes it’s a child trying something new, or a parent exhaling with relief.

What I appreciate most is the environment. The team is welcoming, collaborative, and genuinely invested in each child’s journey. They’ve made space for me to learn, ask questions, and contribute in meaningful ways. I feel supported, challenged, and inspired.

As I continue this fellowship, I’m excited to keep growing as a nurse, as a storyteller, and as someone committed to serving families with dignity and compassion. If the first two weeks are any indication, this experience will leave a lasting mark on how I show up in my future practice.

And honestly, I’m grateful. Grateful for the opportunity, the people, the mission, and the chance to be part of something that truly matters.

Armelle S. Ndemanou Dongmo, Jacob’s Ladder

This morning, the first thing I did after waking up was go outside, let some chickens out of their coop, throw a cup of corn into their enclosure, refill their oats and water, and then get started with my actual work for the day. My work with Compass International [Family Center], as of now, has largely been virtual; the nonprofit’s needs primarily relate to social media and data collection, which I have taken joy in fulfilling. Some of my prior work with the university, such as my role as volunteer coordinator of St. Teresa of Avila’s Cafe Manna, has exposed me firsthand to many of the most vulnerable living within Valparaiso; however, my role at Compass has exposed me to a new angle by which I can approach caring for a population in need. My role is more administrative in character, at least as of now, and as such, it deals more directly with addressing issues that Compass faces as opposed to immediate care. I believe this is a good path for me to explore because it allows for the professionals who do volunteer work with us to do their job more easily and effectively.

From my economics and math background, I’ve had a lot of experience with research and problem solving, especially in terms of efficiency and complex language and terms. I believe that my time at Compass has given me a unique opportunity to implement that into a setting that actively benefits and assists those on the front lines of care that is needed in Valpo. I’m looking forward to work that I will be doing in the future, particularly both the work I’ll be doing on the ground with Compass participants, but also other ways I can assist the nonprofit administratively. Furthermore, I also appreciate the mission driven and Christian character of Compass International; as a Peer Minister at the St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center, faith is important to me personally, and I view the work that I do as an extension of it. Being able to work for such an important mission as helping international families and individuals grow accustomed to life in the United States is, to me, a textbook example of Matthew 25:35 (“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me”) being applied in modern life. Working for a mission based cause such as this excites me, and spiritually prepares me for what the rest of adulthood will eventually provide.

I would like to end by stating my gratitude toward everyone who has allowed me to thrive at this stage in my life. I would like to thank my family, friends, housemates, and faculty at Valparaiso University for giving me the opportunity to be a positive force within the greater Valparaiso community. Without your support, I surely would not have been able to make it as far as I have. May we all be inspired to live out the Gospel message and see Christ in each and every one of our neighbors.

Matthew Landum, Compass International Family Center