Self-esteem graduation

Today was graduation day for the women who have been taking self-esteem classes. I listened to stories from these women about their issues with self-esteem throughout their lives. Some of the women didn't believe that they had self-esteem problems and didn't think they should have to be in the class. They soon came to realize that some of their underlying issues and problems came from having low self-esteem. Other women had said they had been dealing with this problem for years and finally can now appreciate themselves for who they are. One reoccurring theme throughout the speeches was how these women were beginning to accept themselves from the inside out and not letting other people define who they are. All of the women thanked each other as well as the teachers for all of their support and encouragement throughout their journey. Each woman had her own issues with self-esteem and each woman shared how she will continue to grow from everything she had learned in the class. One of the best and most emotional parts of the graduation was when two of the women sang "Hero" by Mariah Carey. All of the women graduating as well as the people attending graduation became emotional and you could see how everyone was affected by this wonderful class.

Jefferson Open House

On Monday I got to attend the 50 Jefferson Avenue apartments open house. The event was to show guests the 39 new apartments built for recovering addicts and their children. Before the tour of the amazing new apartments there was a children's fair and community fair. The kids living in the apartments got the chance to play games and win prizes and the women had the opportunity to learn more about the organizations surrounding their new apartments.

The program began with speeches from partnering organizations and companies that helped make the new apartment complex possible. Cindy Tondee, one of the women living in the new apartments, spoke about what having this apartment means to her and how much Amethyst has helped her. Ginny O'Keeffe also spoke about what these apartments will do for the women and children living in them.

After all of the speeches we got to go on a tour of the apartments. We saw three different apartments and each one was gorgeous. Each woman decorated to make the place their own and each apartment was beautiful. We went to the basement for punch and cookies and also got to see some of the communal spaces in the complex. There was a computer lab and laundry room as well as a space for the kids to run and play and also study. All of the areas were so beautiful and listening to each woman talk about her apartment made me realize how much it really means to them. The open house was a great event and a lot of people turned out to see what Amethyst and the other organizations had built.

Wednesday

Today I worked on thank you letters for all of the wonderful donations that Amethyst recieves. I didn't know how many great donations we get each day! I went to OSU medical center to pick up tickets for the Talbot Hall Anniversary event. I am also working on a new design for thank you cards. I can't get the design quite how I want it right not, but I'll be working on it again tomorrow. Everyday I learn more and more about Amethyst and all that they do. I got to me Teresa today who I will also be working closely with along with Lauren. Can't wait to come back tomorrow!

1st day on the job!

Today was my first day interning at Amethyst. After I got set up with all of the computer programs I started to become familiar with some of the social media aspects Amethyst utilizes like facebook as well as this blog. I got settled in immediately with the fun and open atmosphere here at Amethyst. My boss, Lauren, and I went to lunch at a small Asian restaurant and the food was really good. I'm excited to get started working on new and interesting projects for Amethyst. I am also looking forward to learning more about the great work that Amethyst does helping women with addiction problems get treatment and long term housing. More posts to come about my experience interning with Amethyst and upcoming events!