As a closing to my senior year, my school, Gann Academy, gives students the opportunity to gain experience in a particular occupation that may help their future goals or develop their interests. As a granddaughter and great granddaughter of innocent people affected by World War II and anti-Semitic oppression, I grew up hearing stories about the painful adversities my family faced in Soviet Russia. Additionally, I feel an obligation to address the needs of European senior survivors in my community.
For six weeks I helped the hardworking team of Schechter Holocaust Services, who devote their utmost attention and support to those who have been through humanity’s worst era. I assisted Café Hakalah in late April, a luncheon that brought together Israeli Defense Force soldiers and over eighty survivors. In addition, I spent time researching, filing important documents, speaking on the phone with individual clients, making holiday gift bags, and giving a helping hand to the diligent staff who have numerous tasks to complete. Towards the end of my internship, I joined my supervisor on a home visit. The home visit put all the work I did in the office into perspective. It was special to connect to the people who benefit from my help in the office.