In early September 2011 I started an internship here at People Plus. At that time the organization was undergoing a major transition; a new executive director was being hired, the Teen Center was undergoing major adjustments, programming was in flux, and overall there was a haze of uncertainty about the future.

Being an intern, I had the ability to absorb the transformation unlike the employees or volunteers. Now, nine months later I can personally attest to the strength and viability of the organization. The immense changes that have taken place over the last nine months are a true testament to the supportive nature of the greater Brunswick community.

Yet, nine months ago I was a bit apprehensive about what I was getting into. I mean, the stability of an organization is extremely important to an intern. I wanted to get my hands dirty, but also have necessary support and assurance of longevity. For brief periods of time clean and understandable stability was far from the case, but with the hard work and dedication of a invested executive director, a dynamic board, and faithful staff and volunteers, stability has finally found its footing. People Plus was at a crossroad‚ but now a clear path has been chosen and a bright future is in store.

My time at People Plus has marked some major milestones. In this past year a large majority of the computer technology has been upgraded to fast and proficient Apple computers, grant writing and funding has increased and been strengthened, a Policies and Procedures manual has been completed, and — most importantly — increased community partnership has been fostered. These significant changes ensure that People Plus can run in an efficient and progressive way.

Overall, the health and well-being of People Plus depends less on the behindthe scenes support of interns like myself, and more on the support of and relationships with community members, families and businesses. The growth of People Plus will continue for many years to come, and prosperity will continue to rein upon this wonderful organization.

I will leave you with one final thought that truly sums up this organization: People Plus “builds” community, “strengthens” community and “is” community.

Make sure you support this iconic Brunswick institution (which by the way turns 35 this year) to ensure its viability for the years to come‚ and you never know, perhaps laughter club, or one of our dynamic fitness classes, is all “YOU” need to find your place in this world.

In closing, I would like to take a moment to share my deep gratitude and thanks to People Plus Executive Director Stacy Frizzle for all of her support, energy, hard work and insight during my time as an intern. It has been an honor and pleasure to work with you.

CHRISTOPHER TRIPP is a student in the master’s of social work program at the University of New England.