I have 6 years experience working with youth and adults in direct service roles. I worked directly with I/DD and behaviorally challenged youth at Eliada Homes Inc in Asheville, NC as well as Murdoch Developmental Center in Butner, NC. I also worked in a direct care role with adults with I/DD and Traumatic Brain injuries. During my time at Evan's Blount Total Access Care I performed duties as a QP (Qualified Professional) in a group home setting. In 2019 I joined the Morrowtown Community Group (MCG) as a volunteer while I was living in Burlington, NC. MCG is dedicated to alleviating violence, drugs and poverty through community service initiatives, engagement and empowerment. I was able to co-chair the Morrowtown Community Group until 2022 and through that experience developed an interest and passion for work around community/neighborhood development, equity and social justice. My current career goals and decision to pursue a degree in Sociology reflect this experience and I hope to find other opportunities that would allow me to continue helping people and communities in a similar capacity. My goals are to continue learning and growing my skillset in areas related to Community Development, Community Engagement, Community Organizing, Social Science Research, Qualitative Research, Strategic Planning, and Community Assessment/Community Based Research.