Evelyn Cardona

The internship at the food pantry has been an invaluable experience in shaping my journey as a social worker. It has provided me with a deep understanding of the intricate dynamics surrounding food insecurity and its ripple effects on individuals and communities. Through direct interactions with clients, I've honed my empathetic skills and cultivated a heightened sensitivity to the diverse challenges people face. Moreover, working alongside dedicated staff members has afforded me a holistic view of the social support systems in place, highlighting both their strengths and areas for improvement. This firsthand exposure has equipped me with practical insights and strategies that I can integrate into my future practice, empowering me to better advocate for and support those in need within our society. Overall, the internship has been a transformative experience, enriching my professional toolkit and reinforcing my commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Volunteering at Feed Rogers provides me with a unique opportunity to connect with my neighbors on a deeper level. As we come together to support our community members in need, we form bonds based on compassion and shared purpose. Through our collective efforts to alleviate hunger, we engage in meaningful conversations, share stories, and develop a sense of camaraderie. Working side by side, we not only provide essential resources but also build a network of support and understanding that strengthens the fabric of our community.

Participated in the 18th annual NAMI End the Stigma Walk with NAMI Arkansas and other members of the community to help raise awareness and end the stigma around mental illness.

NAMI participated in the Fall involvement fair to inform the great opportunities NAMI has for students on campus, but also how we can advocate for mental health!

At hillfest I got to help table for the school of Social Work. I answered any question new student may have had about being a social work major or how they can get involved in clubs that are associated in our program!