Working in Detroit

As a part of my MSW program, I am required to spend two days per week in field.  My placement is at Creekside Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit that develops affordable housing in a part of Southeastern Detroit.  I am carpooling with another Social Work intern who has been working with Creekside for about a year now, so I am saving gas and learning about the history of the organization during the commute. 

My role at Creekside is to serve as the Youth Engagement Coordinator.  Since this is only my second week with the agency, I  have yet to figure out exactly what I am supposed to be doing.  One potential project I am really excited about is starting recycling initiatives in the local schools.  I met with an elementary school today that is really embracing the idea-they are even recruiting "Recycling Rangers" in each class who will help make sure materials are being collected and sorted in the proper manner.

Other than attending lots of meetings these first few days (including the monthly Board meeting that offered a brief yet interesting snapshot of board member/director and staff dynamics), I have spent lots of time losing connection with my unreliable new email account that I can only access remotely.  I've also become much more confident driving in Detroit traffic, even though obeying red lights and painting lanes on newly paved roads seem to be optional...

Tomorrow I start my assistantship in the Office of Student Services-wish me luck!