My Experience

My service-learning experience with Hearts for the Homeless Orlando has been incredible. From working with the non-profit organization, I’ve learned so much about the presence of the homeless community in the local area, their vulnerability to cardiac diseases, and how healthcare disparities don’t afford them reliable access to healthcare and preventative information. I’ve been able to speak with members of H4H, ranging from the E-board to directors and volunteers, and learn about their commitment to aiding this population. My newfound friends at the organization have reinforced my belief that students are more than capable of making a positive difference in their communities (as the Social Change Model for Leadership suggests). On top of allowing me the opportunity to make new friends and aid the underserved, this experience has also given me practical information that I will use in my future. I learned how to perform blood pressure, EKG, and visual acuity tests and how to communicate those results to a patient which will most certainly be useful as I work towards a career in the medical field. Lastly, this opportunity has afforded me the privilege of applying the leadership theory gained from past courses to real world examples, encouraging me to improve my leadership going forward.

Insights Gained

#1 – Knowing yourself (values, skillsets, passions etc) is the first step to making a difference in your community.

#2 – There are many different leadership styles that people can take on. It’s important to note that one isn’t necessarily better than the other; they are just different.

#3 – Every person is capable of making a positive difference in their community regardless of whether they have a formal leadership position.

#4 – Don’t be complacent with your methods. Continue to find ways to improve in the areas of structure, human resources, politics, or symbolism.

#5 – Always be grateful to those on your team. Give them opportunities for growth and learning so they can remain passionate about the goals of the non-profit.

To Hearts for the Homeless Orlando . . . 

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to aid your organization in its mission to eliminate health disparities. Through serving with you, I have been educated about the homeless community in the Orlando area and the many disparities they face. Your dedicated E-board members, directors, and volunteers have shown me that even students like myself are capable of making a positive difference in the world. Seeing how H4H is able to positively impact the homeless population has been an amazing experience, one that has encouraged me to continue volunteering with the organization. Again, thank you for all you do and expect to see next semester.

Sincerely,
Joheily Franco