My Story: Phil Jellen

June 21, 2010 | Subscribe to "My Story" | Subscribe on iTunes

 

Joining the AmeriCorps Program through Goodwill Industries^® of Northern New England (Portland, ME) has been a step in the right direction for me. The AmeriCorps program gives idealistic people an opportunity to put their visions into practice, and in so doing, gain a more realistic working concept of how to create change.

I came to the conclusion that I needed to stop waiting around for leadership from others and, if I wanted to see any change, I’d have to do it myself with members of the local community. I was given a chance to put my ideas into practice through my position as community programs and volunteer coordinator.

I am responsible for forming and maintaining mutually beneficial volunteer partnerships with individuals and other social organizations, including media outlets, high school student groups, university groups, faith-based communities, youth development camps, senior citizen groups and programs for adults facing challenges. I also manage five off-site community gardens, three located at area schools.

Working with so many diverse interests is challenging, and big change is slow, but this is the way to meaningful development: community involvement. I wonder what it will be like to move away from something I have been so deeply committed to when my service is over.

Fortunately, along with the personal and professional development one attains through work experience, I am supported beyond the program with educational awards. Some university programs will waive tuition completely, giving the AmeriCorps member that much more of an advantage in continuing a lifetime of meaningful service work. I plan to take full advantage of this benefit.

I am inspired by the intelligence, creativity, and commitment of my fellow AmeriCorps service members. The term of service would not be complete without this larger community.

Hear more stories from people like Phil.»

 

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