Week 15: Reflection

Future for Kids has taught me so much, not only about non-profits, but also about working with others. I have learned how non-profits get funding, such as where they start, where they look, who they ask and how they ask for money. Ffk showed me what grant writing is about and the process. There is a very professional side that has to be illustrated but also a very emotional side. I learned how to write appropriate thank-yous, how to organize board meetings, and many other jobs around the office. Some of the most important things I learned came from interacting with others. I learned how important it is to communicate with co-workers and how important a monthly or even a weekly meeting can be. Being around the kids was by far the greatest reward for me. It was great to be able to teach them things they may not hear about or learn about in a regular classroom setting and to let them know how important things like respect, friendship, compassion and community service are. It was also quite interesting to be in the background and see how they communicate with their peers and siblings. Seeing this makes it easier on how to effectively communicate with them on their level. Working for a non-profit can be so humbling. It makes you realize that helping your community is so important and it makes you grateful for the life you have. The experience was so positive for me that I want to continue working with FfK as a volunteer. The kids made me a huge card on my last day and it was heart-stopping for me. I realized that kids are always paying attention to us whether we realize it or not and it is so important to be a positive influence for them because we follow what we know. I wouldn't change a thing about my experience, good and bad it has been truly rewarding and I look forward to doing similar work in the future.