Last Day in ATL!

On the last day of service we delivered meals for the first shift. We had two different routes so we use both cars so we completed the task really fast. When we got to the apartment complex where we were to do one of the routes, we realized one of the meals was wrong. We called in the office and the issue was resolved, however they asked us to come back and make sure to stop by the office for a "surprise". I was hoping for a plaque to signify our title as #1. Others were hoping for a tray of the white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. We were all wrong. They gave us t-shirts, the same t-shirts that the workers wear and that they sell. We were honored! They also allowed us to take pictures with the staff we had worked with throughout the week. It was great to get to see them one last time.




After the shift, we headed to Six Flags Over Georgia! We arrived at the park at 11:00 am, but it took us almost 3 hours just to park and purchase the tickets! The lines were terrible to buy tickets. We had participated in the special offer where you bring in 6 food items and are given a coupon for a $20 ticket. We definitely wanted to get in on this deal as regular tickets were $50! This and the fact that it was the first day of the season made it not surprising that the lines were so long.



At Six Flags, we rode 3 rides. We were there for 5 or 6 hours, but we only rode 3 rides! I think this has a lot to do with the long lines as well as the fact that we had so many people so we weren't sure what everyone wanted to ride. We got to ride Superman and the Georgia Scorcher (which is the coaster you stand up on). We also rode the Gotham City Crime Wave, which is a swing ride similar to those at fairs.




Even though we only got to ride 3 rides, I had a great time. It was good to spend some time outdoors exercising and burning some calories. There was a real lack of exercise during the week as we were mainly in the kitchen or driving. We I think the girls had a good time too, and since the budget paid for half of their ticket, they weren't complaining! It was definitely worth the $10 they spent.




On the way home there were some more "bumps" in the road, but it all worked out in the end. We all got home safely and we all had a great experience serving the community in Atlanta. Even though we had to take back the vans at 3 am and I didn't get to bed until 5 am, I would say it was all worth it in the end. I had a great experience and got to work with a great group of people. I also got to work with a great organization which I might want to work with in the future. who knows, if my idea to bring this concept to developing countries really works out, I may need them for consultation purposes. It's always important to keep contacts alive, you never know when you'll need them next!

Another spring break closing...

It's hard to believe I don't have anymore spring breaks left.

Day 5: We're #1!

Today was the second to last day that we worked at Project Open Hands. This picture says it all. We're #1! I have surpassed all other groups who have come through Project Open Hands in terms of what we did during our service there. It was awesome to hear how happy the workers were with our work and how they felt really respected. One woman was telling us that some volunteers come in and don't want to do what they are asked to do. I think that's ridiculous. You're here to volunteer. You are doing them a service. Who better to help and guide the volunteers than the people who work there on a daily basis? I would feel incredibly rude if I didn't follow what the workers were asking me to do.



After the work day we didn't go out and doing any sight seeing. We came home and relaxed. I did some work and got some things taken care of. We had a taco night and did our reflections. They ended up taking a very long time, but in the end I think everyone agreed that it was worth it. We all got that fuzzy feeling inside!



One of our reflection activities was to do a freeze-frame of a moment during the trip. Our group decided to depict the USF defeat of BU in regards to the speed of work completed at Project Open Hand. Chakara's group depicted the service and delivery of meals to the homes. Adelia's group depicted the truth or dare game we played on Sunday night in Centennial Park. I thought it was so cute how we each identified different parts of the trip which were significant to us. I feel a little bad that we picked our defeat of BU over the actual service, but I'm glad one group did. The service was really important and it really want a good deed that was done.




In the end I learned about myself more than anything. I learned that I still do have a bad temper and a short fuse. I need to control that among other things. It helps when I meditate and center myself. I also noticed when I feel conflict and stop myself from expressing my instinctual reaction, I feel a lot better and a lot calmer. I just have to remember that I can't take comments too seriously because half the time the people who say them don't mean them seriously.

Tomorrow we're going to work for the first 3 hours. We're then going to Six Flags Over Georgia! I'm so excited! I haven't been for so long and I know it'll be a great time! I'm also excited about tomorrow because we're doing delivery routes again. I really enjoy that most because I feel I get to really see the faces and experience the impact this organization has on the clients.

Day 4: Gladys Knight's Chicken And Waffles

Today was day 4 of our work with Project Open Hand. Chakara, Alejandra, and Stacy went on a delivery route while the rest of the group stayed in the kitchen. Once again we were on point in terms of speed. We finished every task early and we were given numerous breaks. It is really awesome to see how much help we are to the staff at Project Open Hands. Even though it is a disappointment for me that we aren't interacting as much with the actual clients I am really happy that we are able to give the regular staff a break. I think they really appreciate it. Some of the workers who won't be there for the next couple of days expressed their gratitude today as we left. I think USF definitely is in the positive side of the books for Project Open Hand.



I this project is amazing and even though we didn't really get to experience the fruits of our labor in the kitchen, I think by exposing ourselves to the delivery routes and being able to see the people we are delivering food to, we are able to realize the impact of what we are doing. It's amazing to see the smiles on people's faces as they open the door. It's also amazing to see people waiting. When we were late for some deliveries, some of the clients were almost upset because they were expecting food. These meals are obviously the only source of healthy diet and food that these clients get. It makes me feel bad that we were late, although it wasn't really our fault because the driver who was supposed to deliver those meals canceled last minute.



I also really enjoy seeing the smiles on the faces of the workers when we come in to work. While I know we aren't having as permanent impact as possible, it is still a lot of help for the workers and gives them the ability to take breaks and focus on other aspects of the job. Even Alejandra is helping out with the office work, which definitely gives a break to the office staff.



After work we went to Atlantic Station and walked around the shopping areas. We stopped at H&M FOR FOREVER but some girls got some really cute outfits. I also got to see my friend Pooja! It was really good seeing one of my friends from Atlanta. After spending so much of my life there, it seems weird coming back and not seeing my friends. It sucks that all my friends are so busy but I guess there isn't much I can do but tell everyone I'm here and hope that people come visit me or make plans to see me.




After Atlantic Station, we went to Gladys Knight's Chicken & Waffle restaurant. I was completely disgusted initially because I thought the chicken was wrapped by the waffles. But, to my surprise and delight they were merely presented on the same plate. I tried the macaroni and cheese (thanks for Stacy) and the blueberry waffles (thanks to Wilnie) and they were both DELICIOUS! I know, I know, as a public health professional I should not be eating these things, but when in Rome, right? At least I didn't eat the chicken!!!




We did our reflections at the restaurant which was good. We aired out our dirty laundry. I think it helped to get things out in the open. I feel closer to these girls, even though we have just known each other for a week. I hope we stay friends after this trip. I know last year there were attempts to keep in touch with the ASB group, but after some time it seemed impossible. I hope that doesn't happen with this group.




Another great day of service in Atlanta! I look forward to the next two days. We're going to come out on top!

Day 3 of Work: Team Lightning!

Day 3 of work. It was a whirlwind of food, plates, and plastic bags! We spent the whole day in the kitchen, except Alejandra who got stuck with some other girls who were delivering food. She couldn’t work in the kitchen because she has a nose ring which she couldn’t take off since she just recently got it. The rest of us were working the assembly line scooping food into plates and packing up meals to be delivered. I have to say I am really impressed with the team, they really know how to get a job done fast! During the morning shift, we were able to get the work done 45 minutes before our scheduled lunch break. After the lunch break, we finished work over an hour early! I was talking with one of the individuals who worked there regularly and he said there was one other group who was faster than us, but we were definitely the second fasted group he has seen. My new short term goal: to be THE fastest group to come through Project Open Hands. One of the workers said we had completed the work for 2 days. I’m not sure what they’ll have for us tomorrow, but hopefully it’s a challenge! I know we can do it!



There seems to still be some conflict between the group members, but it seems like its short and snappy and after the moment it’s over with. It’s hard for me to let go of quick remarks against me though. I know sometimes it’s just meant to “make me a better person” but when it’s something that I don’t mean to be taken in a serious or hurtful way and it is, I don’t appreciate not being understood or heard.



At this point it seems that silence in my best asset. Even my random remarks get made fun of. I don’t take it personally. I just remind myself that it’s a joke. If you can’t laugh at yourself, you have no right to laugh at anyone else. I know I have silly quirks and mannerisms, everyone does. That’s the spice of life, being able to joke about the things that make us all unique. Oh well. I’m just going to keep my mouth shut and talk to the individuals who I haven’t felt has attacked me personally. It’s not fair for me to let these individuals ruin my trip and the service that I am doing.



Speaking of the project, I had an idea about starting my own NGO which would provide meals to chronically and terminally ill patients in countries overseas. However, rather than bringing funds and food from the US and exporting them (which creates a reliance on the aid) I would instruct and have community members act as leaders of the project. I would incorporate local traditional food recipes and traditional meals with healthy twists. I think this would help the countries but also empower them to make a difference in their own countries.




After a nap and some leftovers for dinner, the girls and I went to Cascade to go skating. Ahanna, Adelia, and I went to the movies at Atlantic Station because we didn’t have as much interest in skating, although a part of me wishes we all stayed together as a group. After the movie we came back and of course, more disagreement as to what we were going to do the next day. It seems that the planning was all done in vain because no one seems to want to follow “the plan”.

I just have to keep my focus on the task at hand. It doesn’t matter if these girls don’t like me at the end of the week. I have come here to do what I want to do.

Day 2: Roller Coaster of a Day

Today was day 2 at Project Open Hand. We got to officially sign up, well those of us who were in the system. Poor Adelia wasn’t in the system, apparently the office lost her paperwork. No worries, she still got to work! Four of us (Me, Alejandra, Amy, and Ahanna) delivered 14 pound pantry meals while the rest worked in the kitchen. It was a rainy day so more people volunteered for the kitchen (oh the irony). The delivery route was less hectic we didn’t get lost as much. I was both happy and proud as our navigation skills have definitely improved.




When we completed the morning task, we returned to the offices to eat lunch, only to find meager food available. It seemed that the other volunteers and workers cleaned the lunch offerings out! Oh well, I scraped together some macaroni and cheese along with veggies and salad. I also got two delicious white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. No complaints! Well, ok, maybe one, but the cookies made up for it.




After lunch the four of us who delivered food in the morning joined the others in the kitchen to pack and put together meals to be distributed in the coming days. First we packed the bags which were to be distributed. It made me realize how monotonous working in an assembly line can really be. We got backed up frequently and things had to be replaced. Every time something had to be replaced there was a halt and the whole line was on pause. The same thing happened when we were preparing the plates to be sealed. Eat step in the assembly line depended on the previous step and if one was off, the whole line slowed down. It was fun though and of course I turned it into a race! We did so well we got to leave early. I felt bad though because other groups were still doing work. I felt it would’ve been a good idea to stick around and maybe help clean up or something, but it seemed the majority of the group wanted to leave and since we technically got the OK to leave, I didn’t want to try and convince anyone otherwise. I did make sure to get an official OK, I didn’t want any ill feelings towards USF or any of the volunteers. I just wanted to make sure everything was done before leaving so that USF was reflected in a positive manner.




After we got off the clock, we went to Lennox mall. This proved to be an interesting “fun activity” as there were frequent disagreements. It’s hard for me to be an advisor when certain rules are not enforced 100%. I generally try to make sure I follow things I have set forth early on throughout the trip. When a rule has been established in the beginning of the trip, I try and hold true to that rule in order to gain respect from the rest of the group. I did not appreciate it when certain rules were suggested to be broken just because we weren’t in a situation that seemed to warrant the following of said rule. I feel that I often appear to be the bad guy by enforcing certain rules or holding certain opinions of the trip. I know people want to go and do their own thing, but the whole point of coming on an alternative service break with a group is to do things with the group. That is part of the experience, learning to work cohesively in a group in different situations from the work environment to the social realm. I just felt so cornered that I eventually just gave up and decided that everyone was going to do what they wanted so why should I even bother fighting it? I feel bad because at certain points I snapped and was short with some of the group members, but it can be so frustrating when you’re trying to be someone’s friend but at the same time, be a leader. It’s hard to juggle both roles.




When we got back from Lennox mall, we had our reflection. Prior to our reflection, I was packing my bag up and noticed my souvenirs from the World of Coke were missing. Now it wasn’t the fact that these items were missing, but the fact that no one really seemed to care when I tried to bring it to everyone’s attention. I asked twice if anyone had seen anything but after a very superficial search it seemed that the reflection was more important (which in retrospect, I suppose that was more important in regards to the purpose of the trip). This pushed me over the edge and I had to excuse myself to have some alone time and just cry. Sometimes when I get really frustrated I just need to cry. I don’t know why and I know it sounds childish, but having a cry alone on the bathroom floor or in a closet or under my bed does wonders. Afterwards I rejoined the group, slightly less bouncy, but feeling a little better nonetheless. I participated in the reflection as best I could, however I do know that I was still a bit short and not as explanatory as I am during normal reflections. After the reflection I requested another search and my items surfaced. I feel that patience really is necessary sometimes. While I may not have the perfect amount of patience, I do believe I am working towards that. By not screaming or taking my anger out on anyone and also by excusing myself to have my personal moment, I really do feel that I have grown (at least a little, maybe half an inch).




For dinner Chakara, Wilnie, and Kirri are cooking. It’s spaghetti night! I do enjoy these group dinners we have. I feel like they are a bonding experience because some of us don’t cook as often and so we get an experience cooking with others and branching out of our comfort zone.

First Day of Service

This morning we had our first day of service. We also got our first proper introduction to the morning traffic in Atlanta. We left at 8:15 and it took approximately 40 minutes to get to the Open Hand headquarters (which should have taken about 20 minutes). I'm happy Adelia drove this morning, though I'm sure it was hectic for her with the traffic. We arrived at the headquarters just before 9 and got our introduction to the project and the organization. Since one other group didn't show up, we split our group into two. Half of the group (Ahanna, Chakara, Wilnie, Kerrie, Amy, and Stacy) worked in the kitchen packing and organizing the meals to be delivered. The rest of us (Me, Alejandra, and Adelia)drove around town delivering the meals.



Some of the individuals who received food lived in apartments like this one while others lived in individuals homes. It was really interesting to see the differences in the types of people who we served. Some were pretty independent, at least it seemed, in that they were walking and could answer the door without trouble. Others were more dependent in that they had walkers, HOSPICE care workers living with them, as well as friends.



Some individuals lived in apartments that are nicer than the ones I live in! I thought that was interesting. It is necessary to understand that some of these people aren't more necessarily, but they are suffering from chronic diseases or terminal illnesses which do not allow them to go out of their homes. This doesn't mean that they can't afford to live in nicer places though. Some of the areas were gated communities. It's nice to know that the individuals are safe, or at least as safe as they can be in a gated community. Others weren't so fortunate. We went to many areas that were run down and many homes that weren't as nice in comparison.



We also ran into some interesting animals. In the afternoon we were supposed to all be packing meals but one driver canceled so some of us were able to deliver meals again. Alejandra, Wilnie, Kerri, and I delivered meals in the afternoon while Chakara, Ahanna, Amy, Stacy, and Adelia worked in the kitchen fixing the meals.

While we were delivering rood in the afternoon we saw so many dogs! There were huge dogs, fat dogs, and tiny dogs. It was cool to see how many of the patients had animals. It is proven that having pets will improve your overall mental health and emotional state.

We got lost many times, but it was fun. Even though we made so many U-turns, it was really fun spending time delivering meals and really seeing where our work was going.



Another plus of driving around was the beautiful trees! There is some really beautiful botany around Georgia. I always forget how awesome it is to see the different seasons and seeing the leaves change. It's nice to be somewhere different for a change. I've been feeling rather restless in Tampa lately.



When we got home, we took a beautiful 2 and a half our nap. After that, Ahanna, Stacy and I made dinner. We made penne pasta with rigatoni. We also had chicken, mashed potatoes, and salad. It was a pretty good meal!

For our team activity, we play spoons, or knifes. Apparently no one realized I fight to the death! We played a good round and Alejandra and I came out on top. I think I put the fear in her so she didn't want to go one-on-one with me.

During reflection, we talking about what we enjoyed and what we were disappointed with during the first day. We also did props and funny stories for each other. Overall, it was a good day and night!

The main overarching thing I keep in mind is what happens to the people we miss, the people we don't deliver meals to that day. I feel that there should be some investigation as to the reason they were not home or didn't answer the door. I don't want to think about someone having fallen and can't reach the door. God forbid something awful happen.

I guess all I can do is see what each day has in store for me and hope for the best!

Tomorrow we are working the same hours, but we're going to Lennox mall tomorrow! Maybe I'll find something cool to buy for my parents for their birthdays! Hopefully I get to meet up with some of my friends here.

Exploring Atlanta

Before I get into today's experience, let's talk about the housing situation and the sleeping arrangements. First of all, we're staying in Tucker, Georgia which is about 20 minutes away from downtown Atlanta. We're staying in a building which was initially a doctor's office, then turned into a pregnancy crisis center, and finally a safe house.

The place is a bit creepy, there are rooms filled with baby clothes and baby cribs. Of course after understanding the history of the place, we realize what it was used for. However, when we first saw all the baby items, we thought it was pretty creepy.



It's interesting to learn about the history behind the place because initially we have come up with preconceived notions about what happened in this place, what it was used for, etc.



The sleeping arrangements are pretty sub par, but it's alright. We're sleeping on the floor on sleeping bags. Some girls brought blow up mattresses, but I didn't think that far ahead. It's not so bad though. Sleeping on the floor is better for your back.



It kind of amazing seeing the owner of the organization that rents out the housing. He is really passionate about what he does and every time we talk to him, he is always so thankful about us being there. He thanks us for not wanting to party and wanting to serve.



There are only two showers, but there are three bathrooms. There is a kitchen area where we have pretty much taken over.

A group of students from Texas came tonight. There are now at least 20 people staying in this building. It's going to be interesting to see how we can all figure out the timing for using two bathrooms.

So today, we went to explore downtown Atlanta. After we woke up really late, we left for the World of Coke. We got into the tour and the girls seemed to have a really good time. After the tour I got to meet up with my family in Atlanta. We had to do an exchange of goods but other than that it was so much fun. I got to see my nieces and my nephew. We got to play on the playground and run around. I introduced them to my group, but of course they were all really shy. I hope I get to see them again before I leave!



My nieces were so cute, they are always so shy at first but then they get so cute and open! Even with me.



We got to learn about the history of Coca-Cola.



It was cool seeing the World of Coke again. It gave me a different point of vie and experience from last time.



We also got to see some awesome memorabilia of Coca-Cola.



We also got a change to explore the CNN center and Underground Atlanta. It was so cool although I felt like an idiot because I forgot that Underground Atlanta and Little 5 Points were different places. It's ok though, because I talked to Mo and he's going to help me figure out how we can get there. I hope we get a chance to meet up. I hope I get to see a lot of people. I've missed my friends here in Atlanta.



After exploring the CNN center, we tried to walk to the MLK memorial, but that didn't really work out because of how far it was and also because by the time we left it was already closed. It's alright though, we might be able to find out way over there later on in the week. We went back to Centennial Park and relaxed and watched the sunset. We also played a pretty interesting game of truth or dare. We did some random things, but it was fun. I feel like we all bonded a little, however it seems that the girls learned a great deal more about me than they bargained for.

For our reflection activities, we expressed what we hoped to gain from the experience and our work. We also expressed short term goals we had for each day. My short term goal is to listen and learn something about each person we serve. I feel that there is such a huge stigma for these individuals who have these chronic disorders and it just feels wrong. I know I have my own personal stigmas too and my goal overall is to break these stigmas.

We were also asked to write a letter to ourselves. Here is mine:


Dear Aditi,

I hope you get a better understanding of the needs of those who suffer from chronic diseases. I hope your personal stigma and attitudes towards those with chronic diseases such as HIV/AIDs diminishes in order for you to better serve those communities. I hope you take the time to learn about the lives of these individuals as they are people just like you. Do not judge or think ill of those people as they may have poor luck. You are vey lucky and blessed. Working with these individuals should strengthen your sense of appreciation for your own life. Good luck!

<3 Aditi



I hope I reach all my goals and I hope my life is changed, just like my life changed after my ASB experience last year.