Kylie Brandt (22)

Alma Mater: Bucknell University

Pittsford, NY

Favorite Books

Crazy Love by Francis Chan, Counterfeit Gods by Timothy Keller, Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne.

Hobbies

Running, cooking, hiking, reading, traveling and exploring new environments, spending time with friends and last by certainly not least, working with children : )

What attracted you to GSV?

I was attracted to GSV because places its’ volunteers in intentional communities in which we support and challenge each other through this year of immense growth. I also was drawn to the idea of having a support person and a close relationship with my supervisor. I was sold when I read GSV’s tenants (social justice, spirituality, community and simplicity) as they relate to the core values of my life.

Where are you serving/what kind of work are you doing?

I am running a leadership after school program at a middle school in the Bronx. Some of the aspects of my position are placing kids in internships within the surrounding community, organizing community service opportunities in the neighborhood and facilitating high school prep and college prep courses with our partner, Fordham University. I also run a creative arts therapy workshop, yoga classes, money management workshops, amidst other activities.

How have you seen personal growth thus far as a result of your experience (site placement/community) with GSV?

I have grown significantly so far, as I have been challenged to work with a new demographic of children than I have ever worked with before. I am learning how to treat them with tough love, being strict in order for them to realize how much I care about them doing well in school. I have learned that many of the students just need someone to believe in them, as they are faced with many negative voices and pressures in their lives that would be easy for them to succumb to. I have grown in my confidence and strength as a figure that loves and enforces in a way that encourages children to feel empowered to take a hold of their future.

What is the best or most surprising part about your volunteer year so far?

I have been pleasantly surprised at the way in which GSV structures our living situation. We are not just roommates, but are a supportive community in which we embody values of trust, honesty, open-mindedness and love. We do not just come home from work and say “Oh yes, work was good.” Instead, we dive into discussion about how our position makes us feel, how we feel like we are making a difference (or not) and how social justice issues are deeply embedded into the work that we do. I feel blessed for the way in which GSV places us in an environment that we can not only turn to for support, but grow from, as well.

Any advice for someone considering post-graduate service?

Do it! GSV provides us with incredible support. GSV runs retreats, connects us with support people, spiritual directors and all the support we need to get the most out of our service year. It’s a perfect transition into hands-on service work after graduating and entering into the “real world.” I strongly recommend taking this opportunity to learn, grow and explore the world and yourself in a whole new and exciting way.