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When I made the decision to join AmeriCorps, I had just graduated from college and had no idea what I wanted to do with my degree. I was drawn to WithinReach because I was interested in connecting people directly to health and food resources, as well as the opportunity to gain firsthand experience in the field of public health. I was lucky enough to have been placed at WithinReach.

At WithinReach, I have not only gained real-world experience, but have had the opportunity to also assist dozens of clients in receiving basic needs, like healthy food and affordable health insurance. AmeriCorps has given me the opportunity to see how our health systems function in the real world, instead of just learning about it in a classroom. It has been a very rewarding experience to support clients, especially those who may be unsure of what they are eligible for, and connecting them to the resources they need. Community outreach and serving people face-to-face has also been a significant part of my role. Spending time with my fellow AmeriCorps on outreach and getting a chance to visit community spaces, like colleges, food banks, and DSHS (Department of Social and Health Services) offices has been an amazing experience.

During my time at WithinReach, I have been able to find what I am passionate about, support clients in getting the help they need and apply what I have learned in school into real-life practice. I have been very fortunate, for these reasons alone, to get the opportunity to serve through AmeriCorps at WithinReach.

As an AmeriCorps at WithinReach, you can help to address healthcare access and food insecurity by delivering in-person support, information, referrals, and application assistance to underserved communities in King and Snohomish Counties. Learn more about serving at WithinReach.

Are you interested in serving as an AmeriCorps next year? The Washington Service Corps will begin posting their 2019-2020 positions this Spring. However, in the meantime, you can get one of their waitlists and be notified when positions become available.