Community Partner : Martha ’ s Place Intern : Corina Zisman Site Supervisors : Joy Lanier
What is Martha ’ s Place ? Martha ’ s Place is a Maryland state-certified recovery program for women overcoming drug addiction and homelessness located near Baltimore ’ s communities of Sandtown-Winchester and Upton .
" Being a student at Johns Hopkins University , I am an insider to so many communities . Not only the students at Hopkins , however also the alumni , the staff , and many other extended groups . However , there is one group of which I have blatantly known I was an outsider . The Baltimore community , while always surrounding me , has felt beyond my reach . I have tried to adventure into the city , go to the “ local ” spots , and become a member , however my presence as the “ Hopkins ’ tourist ” has always been identifiable from miles away . Although I was not a part of the community , I have always felt a tremendous debt to Baltimore . A debt that could not be repaid with a few hours a week tutoring , or a single day of service every year . However , working at Martha ' s Place , was the opportunity I had been searching for . Although eight weeks felt too short , working with and learning from citizens of Baltimore who were actively fighting to strengthen and support the city taught me so much .
These past weeks , I have not only worked in an office , however , I have also learned how to feel like a member of Baltimore . For the first time , I truly know and have connected with members of the community who aren ' t related to Hopkins . I still feel indebted to Baltimore City , however now I also feel indebted to these individuals . I am so grateful for their willingness to accept me , despite my short stay . I am touched by their knowledge of this city , and their interest in teaching me . At the beginning of my internship , I had no idea how sad I would be to leave . No idea how desperate I am to ensure that this isn ' t the last time I see these heroes .
Starting the fall semester , I ' m hopeful and committed that I can now merge these two communities . I can be a Hopkins tourist , but also a citizen of Baltimore . Although I ' ve been indebted to Baltimore , I now also feel invested . I am dedicated to continuing to learn about this incredible city , and to be an active member of not only Johns Hopkins , but now also Baltimore ." -Corina
• Researched and contacted potential community partners . Worked to fill the empty spaces in our program , and ensure that the community knew what our program offered .
• Supported in administrative duties , scheduling interviews , creating organization systems for files , and completing chart audits .
• Individually worked with residents to assist in the job application process , from editing resumes , to calling employers and practicing interview skills .
35