GW Community Response to COVID-19

I continued working on transcribing documents from the Freedmen's Bureau, specifically letters received by the Surgeon in Chief.

I helped someone in need today by going out and shopping/picking up prescriptions for them as they felt unsafe leaving their home. This was one of my favorite activities as I got to interact directly with those in my neighborhood (the man who I delivered to was very nice and extremely grateful).

Did virtual volunteering verifying documents for Smithsonian and transcribing them.

I continued transcribing documents from the Freedmen's Bureau for the Smithsonian, primarily lists of letters that the Surgeon in Chief received.

We were given the option to tutor virtually as a way to serve the community in the time of this health crisis. Since I am currently living separately from my family, I spent a total of 11 hours over the past few weeks assisting my 10 year old brother with his English coursework and working to enhance his reading and writing abilities through Zoom.

I wake up at 5:30 am to help out at Crossroads. Despite having to wake up extremely early, I found it very fun and very self-rewarding. I helped other volunteers prepare bagged breakfast and lunch for the homeless. 

I transcribed documents for the Smithsonian's collection of documents from the Freedmen's Bureau. Not only did I get to read historical documents, but I got to play a part in helping the Smithsonian preserve them. I really enjoyed my service work here.

I'm taking the GW course- BISC 1008: Understanding Organisms Through Service Learning, taught by Professor Tara Scully

As part of this course, our class has been engaging in a variety of alternate community service activities, as we adjust to the COVID-19 crisis. Community service is required as part of our grade in the course.

This submission is completing for the "Others in need" task. The description was the following, "There are many people who should not and can't go out, either because of a physical situation, age, or an underlying health issue, they need help...carry out an errand such as going to get food, supplies, medication, etc. for someone in this situation..."

I picked up food from our local supermarket and delivered it to my adorable grandparents (while keeping a safe distance).

It's certainly interesting how common tasks have become stressful/potentially dangerous during this unorthodox time.