Professional Service, Leadership & Advocacy
Service and advocacy are essential parts of my identity as a counselor-in-training. I believe that supporting communities outside the counseling room is just as important as the work done within it. My volunteer work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and PRO-ACT has been a meaningful way to live out this value and strengthen my role as an advocate for individuals and communities in need.
With Habitat for Humanity of Philadelphia, I participated in home renovation projects that provided safe and affordable housing for financially challenged families. These experiences taught me the value of teamwork, resilience, and the dignity that comes from helping others build stability in their lives. I also enjoyed volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity Re-Store warehouse, where I worked alongside other volunteers in a setting that blended service with camaraderie and fun. These opportunities highlighted how service work strengthens not only the community but also the personal character of those who serve.
I also had the privilege of contributing to PRO-ACT (Philadelphia Recovery Organization – Achieving Community Together), an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families impacted by addiction. My involvement included helping set up and participating in the annual PRO-ACT Recovery Walk, a powerful event in Philadelphia that celebrates recovery and advocates for reducing stigma around substance use. Being part of this movement affirmed my commitment to advocacy and reminded me of the collective strength found in community efforts to promote wellness.
These service experiences have reinforced my belief that professional identity extends beyond counseling sessions. By engaging in leadership and advocacy through volunteerism, I have grown in my capacity to serve as both a counselor and a community partner who supports positive change.
