Washington DC - Week 1

I had no idea what to expect when I embarked on the Washington DC trip two weeks ago. It turned out to be one of the best experiences I have ever had. The work was quite exhausting, but it was some of the most rewarding work I've done. 

One of my favorite sites in DC was Martha's Kitchen. This organization, which is so vast it covers an entire city block, covers everything from childcare and youth programs to grocery pick up and meal delivery. It was amazing to see how much a group of people can do! We helped to portion food for the bagged meals and to sort through edible donations. So much bread is donated to the kitchen that it often goes bad before it is used. It was hard to see food go to waste, but perishable items are hard to distribute quickly.

The most defining experience of the trip for me was the barbeque. Together with the other school visiting YSOP we cooked, served, and ate a meal with homeless community members. It was both rewarding and fun because I saw how easy conversation was, and what wonderful people they were! Learning peoples' individual stories was really interesting, and some great conversations took place - many about Obama, everybody loved him! I had a wonderful time and met fantastic people that we then saw around DC over the next few days.

YSOP in DC was a great experience. Upon returning, I have sought out opportunities for service work here in Rhode Island. I've been working at the Food Bank this week, because the DC YSOP trip had taught me that my time and work is valuable and that the work I do makes a difference.

-Ariel G