A Life-Changing Experience
While an intern at the Philadelphia Furniture Bank, Brittany Thomas not only made a difference, but was changed for the better.
Last month concluded my internship at the Philadelphia Furniture Bank, and I have to say with all honesty that I will miss it tremendously. In the short time I spent there working alongside its amazing staff and the multitude of case workers it had a significant role in allowing me to discover what I am truly passionate about, and for a 20-something year old fresh out of college, that is a huge deal.
I became introduced to the furniture bank during my last semester of my undergraduate at Temple University. I was in one of my Religion class’s where we at the time were discussed the heart breaking truth of death and dying in homelessness that often times goes ignored. During that discussion a representative from Pathways to Housing PA, Danielle, the Director of Workforce Development and Advocacy Initiatives came to talk to our class. Homelessness has always been an issue dear to me but when she explained the strides her agency was taking to combat homelessness in Philadelphia, and in cities throughout the nation, I knew instantly I had to be a part of the organization.
She stressed the importance of not only accountability, but rehabilitation, faith, trust, and responsibility both for the clients and caseworkers. She explained that Pathways was different because they believed that someone struggling with substance use or disability does not mean that they do not have a right to a safe place to sleep at night. Pathways offered second chances without all the ultimatums that often come with transitional housing. Yet they still offered resources towards rehabilitation and recovery while building relationships among the clients and caseworkers.
After talking to Danielle I was able to start an internship in Pathways: the Philadelphia Furniture Bank, where they give furniture to people recently coming out of homelessness. It was there that I was given the chance to work directly with caseworkers from dozens of amazing agencies like Women Against Abuse, Horizon House, and NHS. I was able to sit down with clients and discuss one on one there needs and offer them immediate help. I saw the wonderful relationship built between so many case workers and their clients and by in large most people were all very grateful for our services.
Still, when dealing with the issues of homelessness a variety of emotions come into play, and rightfully so. Some people I worked with were homeless for 10 years or more and I was very grateful to be able to witness a small time of change in their life where I was able to have an impact.
Outside of working hands on with the clients I also gained administrative experience. The volunteer coordinator, Howard Pinder, gave me all the opportunity to grow and offered me wonderful advice and education which set me up for great opportunities within the non-profit sector. I am so grateful for the opportunity to intern at the Furniture Bank, and I am truly better for having done so.
