Looking back at my summer experience, I am grateful to have used my time in a way that benefits those less fortunate in the community. Week to week I have been organizing materials at ECHO that were given to those experiencing poverty. It has been eye opening to see the immense amount of people experiencing poverty in Tallahassee and the great need there is for help with this issue. It was heart warming see an organization that is working hard to help other people in painful circumstances.
One thing I took away from this experience is the importance of helping others help themselves. ECHO understands that the best thing we can do for people in poverty is to get to the root of the issue. This is why ECHO works to help others help themselves through personal counseling and assistance. They evaluate the need and do what they can to help people get to the next level. This could mean assistance in education, employment, rehab, etc. However, as people are getting to the next level there are immediate needs that must be met before they can sustain themselves. This includes resources such as food, clothing, rent assistance, etc. ECHO taught me the importance of meeting immediate needs while working towards long-term sustainability.
HSF House Blogs 