I have been at my volunteer placement for 10 hours total. I have had 2 shifts at the clinic and I was able to be part of running a booth for SEARCH at an event that started conversations between those at the university and community organizations on the topic of volunteerism and research.

I feel a lot more comfortable with my placement compared to my first shift at the clinic. I have met some interesting people and I have been able to have very interesting conversations. For example, at my second shift at the clinic, I was put into a group with a social work mentor and other volunteers to work and come up with ideas about activities and ideas for a teen group that SEARCH is developing. This was really interesting becuase I was able to apply some of what I have learned in my classes to the development of a program for youth to educate them on things from self-concept to health to relationships. I believe it is very important for youth to be educated about these areas so they can make positive choices in their lives. I was also tasked with talking to the youth who came to the clinic that day which I enjoyed because I like hearing what teens have to say about their interests and what is important to them at their age.

Being halfway done this placement makes me feel a little sad knowing that it is going to end. I am not in Regina over the summer and I won’t be able to volunteer there during the summer months. I hope to fit in volunteering at the clinic again in the fall. I feel like I am getting to know more about different areas of Regina by doing volunteer placements. I am gaining first-hand experience working with those who did not have the same upbringing or opportunities as me. I have registered for a workshop to gain more knowledge of opioid use and overdose through the clinic. Any knowledge I gain now will shape who I am as a teacher so I want to become educated in many different areas in order help wherever I can when I am an educator. I have two more shifts at the clinic before I am done my hours and the semester is done. I am thankful for all I have learned so far and hope to keep learning more in the final hours of this placement.