Nick at Doorways.
Coming from Toledo, Ohio, it is not hard to see that this transformation into the metropolitan D.C. area is no easy step. I expected a much more distant community lifestyle, one where the people living here went to work on “the Hill” and came home to their TV’s, 2.3 children and minded their own business, other than politics. However, I found a different reality.
I have spent the last two months at Doorways as a development intern and my time is drawing to a close. I feel truly fortunate to have been paired with Doorways through The Fund for American Studies internship program. There are nearly 400 students like myself who came to Washington, D.C. this summer to take classes at Georgetown on civic associations in America and to live and intern in such associations.
Living with my fellow students in the DC metro region, I found a profoundly diverse group of people who cram into trains together and shop at farmers markets. I learned that networking at a happy hour can introduce you to a new job or connection as quickly as applying online. But even with all of the fast paced, bureaucratic hoopla an outsider expects, I was struck by the sense of community and generosity of ordinary people. At Doorways, I saw a variety of ways people give. From individuals who give donations of thousands of dollars to someone who donates one dollar a month. And not only are people giving money, but they donate something far more valuable, time.
Doorways is made up of a wonderful community full of great people. They do not just work to “save” homeless people or to offer assistance to domestic violence survivors, they work to bring together and create a community. This community unites in its passion for a just and opportunity laden home for each family they serve. As an outsider, I am impressed with Arlington and its network of caring citizens. I urge you to give whatever you can to continue your commitment to your community. Whether it is time, one dollar a month, or a thousand dollars a year, every little bit counts and more importantly, it means the world to families in need.
~ Nicholas Komives, Doorways Summer Development Intern
Tags: Arlington, Testimonials
Caroline Jones
