My first day at People Plus was a pleasant surprise. I went to film the monthly “News and Views” segment in Harpswell. While there, I helped to use the camera.

Since then, I knew my internship at People Plus would consist of new experiences such as this one.

Although I was at People Plus only a short time, I learned a lot about what drives a nonprofit organization. Volunteers are especially important in all aspects. This connective web of individuals contributes to the warm and friendly environment that People Plus offers.

While I was quietly sitting at my desk most days, several volunteers would make their way up the short steps to chat with me and ask how I was doing. Instantly, I felt like I was a part of this connective community and was grateful to be working with such dedicated individuals.

While here this month, I was asked to do all sorts of things from helping with the Facebook page to researching grants and foundations. I prepared “awards” for the volunteers, set up for luncheons, organized the basement, created mailing lists for events, sorted old files and ran errands. I learned many things and helped in many areas of the organization.

Another part of my internship was volunteering in the Teen Center. Because my background is strictly working with children, I thought I would feel very comfortable at the Teen Center. However to my surprise, I found it difficult to engage the teens. I stuck with it though and although working in the Teen Center was at first a challenge for me, by the end of my internship I felt at ease.

While at People Plus, I met and worked with individuals who were caring and committed to helping me gain new experiences and teach me the ins and outs of a nonprofit organization. I know that my time here at People Plus hasn’t fully ended because I sincerely want to come back and help wherever I am needed.

However, for now I will fully cherish the memories I’ve made and will miss working at People Plus as I continue on my journey to become a better individual, coworker and educator.