Week 9: The Exit

It’s so fascinating to go back and reread the intentions I set at the beginning of the program. I feel that I’ve succeeded in accomplishing them and have come out of this experience with more professional and personal growth than I could have imagined.

I’ve learned so much about grant writing and I’ve been fortunate enough to be the lead writer on a few grant proposals this summer. There are such high stakes that come with this kind of work, seeing that the funding has the potential to have such a positive impact on the community. I know that I will carry these skills back to an academic context in terms of triple-checking everything and meticulous attention to detail. I definitely feel that I’ve come out of this experience with a more nuanced perspective of the non-profit sector. Sometimes things can be messy and it takes a lot of elbow grease to truly make an impact. I have been continuously inspired by the tenacity of everyone at the Southwest Detroit Community Justice Center in creating a non-judgmental and transformative environment.

One thing that I didn’t really take into account when DCERP started was how much the people here would shape my experience. I’m coming out of this summer with amazing new friends, lifelong mentors, and experiences that I will cherish forever. If you are reading this and are considering applying to DCERP next year, don’t hesitate to put yourself out there because it could possibly change your life.