Hello! My name is Callie Hoffman, and I am a rising junior at The George Washington University, majoring in Human Services and Social Justice. I am honored to be a member of the 2025 Humanitarian Internship Program Pilot (HIPP) cohort and have had the incredible opportunity to intern this summer with World Central Kitchen (WCK). I was drawn to HIPP after learning about it through my faculty advisor, recognizing that this program closely aligns with my goals of gaining meaningful, hands-on experience in addressing humanitarian issues both locally and globally.
Throughout my life, I have always been passionate about learning more about humanitarian efforts and directly contributing to the organizations that address them. Growing up in a small town in California, I developed a deep appreciation for the power of community and the importance of giving back through volunteering.
One of my more recent volunteer experiences in my hometown was with none other than World Central Kitchen, which partnered with a local restaurant to prepare meals for us to distribute to those affected by a flood. That experience gave me a glimpse into WCK’s unique model of working alongside communities, supporting local economies while providing critical aid. It was a formative moment that broadened my understanding of what humanitarian aid can and should look like, which is collaborative, empowering, and community-driven.
I never imagined that two years later, I would be interning at WCK, contributing to the other side of the supply chain team as a relief team intern.
This transition from working on the frontlines to learning the operational and strategic side of humanitarian response has been transformative. HIPP has opened so many doors for me, giving me the opportunity to develop my practical skills in nonprofit management and build meaningful connections with professionals in the field.
Looking ahead, I plan to join the Peace Corps after graduation and pursue a career in international development. My experiences this summer have strengthened my commitment to humanitarian work and equipped me with the tools to make a meaningful impact in communities worldwide. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to give back to an organization that once supported my community not so long ago.