Through the Eyes of a Berks Encore Intern
During my time spend as an intern for Berks Encore, I have witnessed true care and love that the staff and volunteers hold for the organization. I spent a mix of days both in the office and at the centers, where I found numerous examples of how such compassion can have an incredible and positive impact on an elder’s life.
For the past two months, I have been surrounded by people who understand what a precious thing life is. The staff and volunteers of Berks Encore all appreciate those who they serve and not only enjoy their job, but also strive to hold a positive impact on the lives of the elder community. They work tirelessly to ensure that Berks County’s seniors enjoy their golden years as best as possible.
Before beginning my internship, I never realized how many services Berks Encore offered – many for no cost. After talking to many seniors who attend the multiple centers, I would highly encourage seniors to venture out and visit a center. Personally, I have had an emotional summer and, although I am much younger than those at the centers, they have all helped me through my own emotions with love and care. That is why I would also encourage the younger community to volunteer at a center; not only will you brighten their day, but they also will help you in your own way.
The individuals who volunteer for this organization have some of the largest hearts I have ever come to know. I spent one afternoon delivering Meals on Wheels for the first time with a woman who has been delivering for many years. The second house we came to had no answer or sign of movement. Instead of just assuming the owner was away, this volunteer called multiple people in hopes of finding where the homeowner had been and if he was okay. This volunteer was genuinely concerned, as if the man who was not answering was her own family member. This is just one example; there are many other volunteers within the organization that act just like this and hold an incredible impact on the lives of the Berks Encore seniors.
As for the staff who work tirelessly to make the running of Berks Encore possible, they are simply amazing. They are all not only experts at their jobs, but they also show compassion every step of the way and understand the importance of what they are doing. During my days in the office, many seniors would often come up to visit and say hello. The staff knew the names of each senior that visited and always took time out of their hectic days to hold a conversation with the seniors to make them feel welcomed.
The center managers have all worked to create positive, caring and supportive environments for their seniors. During my time with Berks Encore, I visited the centers many times to record the memories of many seniors. Most of the time these stories sadly began with the loss of a husband, wife, or child, and that became the reason for coming to the center. The managers have all successfully created a place for healing, a place where someone can go just for support, love and of course some bingo.
At the end of the day, I am so thankful for this experience. I have gotten to know some amazing people, had the privilege to write their stories and grow as a person. Life is a crazy thing; it will fly by before you know it and soon the young community of which I am a part of will become the older generation in need of the support and benefits Berks Encore provides. This is something I feel the younger community needs to remember while considering volunteering for such an organization.
Berks Encore 