Erinn Gardner: Completed A Summer Internship (5 points)

 

I am thankful to have participated in the Black 2 San Francisco summer program, an experience that profoundly shaped my professional and personal development. During my time in the Bay Area, I worked with the San Francisco Bayview, a Black newspaper dedicated to amplifying community voices. This opportunity allowed me to engage directly with residents, cover stories rooted in truth, and connect with a network of passionate changemakers. My favorite assignment was reporting on District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, whose work continues to redefine justice and leadership in San Francisco.

 Beyond journalism, I volunteered at Glide Memorial Church, serving meals to hundreds of residents in the Tenderloin community. This act of service deepened my understanding of community engagement and reminded me of the importance of telling their stories. Reflecting on this experience, I’ve realized that growth often happens when I step outside of what’s familiar and immerse myself in the lives of others. The Black 2 San Francisco program not only expanded my professional horizons but reaffirmed my purpose as a journalist committed to uplifting my community.

-Erinn Gardner