Meet Veronica, an Old Dominion University graduate from North Chesterfield, Virginia!
Why did you decide to come to Casa de Esperanza?
I wasn’t exactly sure of my next move following graduation and when I received the email from Casa it struck my interest. The more I researched the more I knew it was something I would love to do and I haven’t regretted my decision yet.
Share a favorite memory.
There was really cute 3 year old little boy who loved to try new things, however if he didn’t succeed on the first try he would give up and get really frustrated. We had a tricycle that he loved but he didn’t know how to ride a bike yet, so he would just use his feet to “ride” the bike as opposed to using the pedals. One day we were outside and another intern and I tried again to show him how to ride the bike. This particular day he listened really well to all instructions and was so patient with himself. Low and behold he learned how to ride a bike that day and I was so proud! That moment meant more than him learning how to ride a bike, it meant that his patience was growing, not just with himself but others. I honestly believe that I was more excited then he was.
What is one thing you learned since arriving at Casa de Esperanza?
I’ve learned that each child has a different set of needs. No matter how many infants or toddlers come across my path, each one requires their own personalized care. Each child has a love language that will vastly differ from the last. Learning how to cater to each individual love language has been one of the most rewarding experiences thus far.
What is one piece of advice, guidance, or recommendation for someone who is considering the Hands of Hope Service Year?
Be prepared to give more of yourself than you thought possible. You’ll have days when you think you have nothing left to give but those are the days when you find out you’re more resilient than you knew yourself to be. The best advice I could give is let go of any expectations and learn to go with the flow. Take each day as its own and remember that every day is different from the day before.