My name is Abby, and I have been working with Good Shepherd for a couple of months. My first few weeks at Good Shepherd Ministries (GSM) have been incredibly insightful and fulfilling. From supporting fundraising initiatives, to developing and implementing new communication materials, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the inner workings of non-profit organizations. Stepping into this environment has not only broadened my perspective on social work but also deepened my sense of purpose.
The first thing I noticed about GSM was the incredible sense of community and compassion. Whether it is through coworkers, volunteers, or the community we serve, there is a shared commitment to dignity, respect, and care. This environment of mutual support creates a space where everyone feels valued, reinforcing a shared purpose to uplift and support the most vulnerable in our community.
Reflecting on my time at GSM thus far, our mission statement comes to mind:
“To be present to the homeless and most neglected members of our community. To offer a broad range of compassionate programs and services to enhance the quality of life while inspiring hope and promoting human dignity.“
To me, these ideas are more than just words–they are the very foundation of the work done at GSM. Whether it is my daily interactions with coworkers or clients, or in witnessing the unwavering dedication to those overlooked by society, I have seen this mission come to life every day in meaningful and tangible ways.
On top of this, as a recent Professional Communication graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University, my time at GSM has reinforced that effective communication in social services relies on authenticity and trust. The goal is to elevate voices which are overlooked, providing visibility, respect, and meaningful representation in the process.
I am grateful to have the opportunity to contribute to a sector that is making a tangible difference, and excited to continue learning about a field where communication has the ability to contribute meaningfully to my community.