Eyewitness

THE STUDENTS FEATURED on this page have been gracious enough to give brief statements about their first-hand experiences working with Delaware area agencies. If you would like to ask specific questions related to their agency, program or service, feel free to contact them directly via e-mail by clicking on their name.

Andrews House
by Scott Hassee ’10

As a leader of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) on campus, we wanted to reach out and help others in the community. As student athletes we are often very busy, and we heard that Andrews House serves meals on the third Thursday of every month to those in need in the Delaware community. This “Third Thursday” event is one that allows FCA members to reach out in the community without stretching the student-athlete too thin. I’ve always heard it said “ ‘Tis better to give than to receive”, and helping to serve meals at Andrews House has made this wise saying a reality for me. It’s been a rewarding experience for me because the people who come are so thankful. It’s a true and honest thank you from their hearts, and to know that I helped make even the smallest difference in their lives is what makes each Third Thursday meal worthwhile. This opportunity has also humbled me by reminding me to count my blessings and thank the Lord every day for everything that He has given to me.

Habitat for Humanity
by Amy Tuttle ’08

Gandhi said, “We must be the change we wish to see in the world.” This is an idea that has become very significant to my vocational and spiritual growth, my worldview, and the way that I spend my time. My name is Amy Tuttle, and I have been spending my time interning at Habitat for Humanity. My time at the organization has fueled my passion to make a difference in terms of creating economic justice in my community! I have had the opportunity to work hands-on with families, churches, and the wonderful staff. Last Spring, I presented the idea to spend a semester interning at Delaware County Habitat for Humanity to my professor Dr. Leavy. The opportunity sounded very appealing to me because of my interest in learning about issues that surround poverty and finding ways to take action to combat these issues. One prevalent issue that affects low-income households is housing disparity. The focus of Habitat for Humanity is to provide the opportunity of home-ownership to families in need. My internship has been great opportunity to put my ideas to action, practice leadership, and become a voice in the Delaware community!

HelpLine
by Ben Goodrum ’09

I have been a volunteer at HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties for about one year now and it has been one of the most valuable experiences of my college career. HelpLine is a not-for-profit crisis, suicide, and information and referral, 24 hour telephone hotline. In addition to providing assistance for suicidal and other crisis callers the organization offers a host of its own family-centered services. These support services cater to people who may need emergency emotional or financial aid. HelpLine advertised for volunteers and I felt that being a hotline worker would be a truly engaging way I could be of service in the Delaware community. I began answering calls after several months of comprehensive training about how to conduct calls and provide relevant referrals. As a volunteer hotline worker I have been able to learn how to better respond to the challenges of various individual and family crises. I have also gained a worthwhile understanding of how people in the US deal with living without enough resources. When I reminisce about my college years HelpLine will be one of the most positive of my memories.

Special Olympics of Delaware County
by Amy Sultzbach ’09

The reason why I enjoy coaching Special Olympics the most is really because of the athletes. Each person on my swimming and women’s basketball teams, is unique in their own way. They love to be there, work hard, and make coaching as much fun for you. It can be time consuming, such as coaching a swim meet all weekend or driving a few hours for a basketball tournament, but it is all worth it in the end. To give these athletes a chance to be successful and to learn skills that will benefit them in the future are some of the many reason why I enjoy coaching and being involved with Special Olympics so much.

Victim Services
by Tabrina Dolder ’08

Working in the Delaware County Prosecutor’s Office of Victim Services has been a really great opportunity! In the office of Victim Services we assist victims of serious felony crimes through the twists and turns of the legal system, and offer them support in a kind and confidential environment. We also have the role of screening for Protection Orders for individuals in fear for their safety. I obtained this internship by filling out an application and interviewing for the position. When I was offered the position the staff helped me work out a schedule that fit with my classes. The office provides great training that prepares interns for working with survivors and handling other responsibilities. Through this internship I attend court hearings with survivors, work with community members over the phone and in person, as well as assisting with other daily work. I have met so many members of the Delaware community and networked with other agencies throughout the county. I have learned a lot about myself, and this experience has shown me a potential career path that I never would have found otherwise! This is an opportunity for anyone who is compassionate and enjoys helping others.

Willis Big Brothers Big Sisters
by Andrew Au ’08

Big Brothers has been wonderful this past Fall Semester. This year I have taken a new position in the Big Brothers program, I am the Program Lead for the Big Brothers. This means that I am in charge of all the Bigs and Littles in the program and to help out whenever needed. I started in Big Brothers Big Sisters because I wanted to make a difference in the community, this program allowed me to help young students to perform at their very best, both socially and academically. At BBBS, Bigs come to Willis Intermediate School to be with their Littles, not only help tutor but also hang out and be with them. To see your Little figure out what has been frustrating them in their homework, witness their grades go up or just playing and laughing with them is a tremendous joy to experience firsthand. Being a Big Brother has undoubtedly helped me grow as much as it has helped the young students do the same.