I am Jasmine Evans, and I am a member of the Humanitarian Internship Pilot Program (HIPP) cohort of The George Washington University. I am currently a rising Junior majoring in Public Health with a concentration in Pre-Nursing.
I was born in Washington DC, ward 8, and was raised by my amazing grandmother, Sharon. Washington, D.C. is known as the tale of two cities. While there are some amazing possibilities for success and growth, the city is also plagued with homelessness, poverty, and drugs. The outliers of inequities with both income and housing have caused major tensions. These outliers are found across the nation; however, it is disheartening that the nation’s capital are suffering these ailments. My academic journey began with a desire to give back to my community. Growing up in this low-income neighborhood, I am a firsthand witness to harbor cases of depression, shortened life expectancy, gun violence, and a host of other problems that are not found in some of the wealthier wards. This has motivated me to thrive in my public health studies and explore socioeconomic determinants of health. I am motivated and have a vision of empowering, motivating, and inspiring people in my community through my chosen profession and this internship has given me the opportunity to start.
A Wider Circle is an organization that supports the community with a variety of resources such as food, career support, clothes, and workshops. They use the “no wrong door” approach meaning they invite anyone that needs help to come in, while mostly catering to the Highland Dwelling + Highland additions residents. They provide furniture as part of their shared mission to eradicate poverty. In the silver spring location, they provide 10–15 families each day with beds, dressers, dining sets, couches, and more — all free of charge.
Currently, I support the Ward 8 Hub with researching, administrative tasks, distribution and many other things. I engage directly with the people and clients who come in by offering food, water, clothes, etc. I have been attending weekly meetings and events where I am learning how to communicate with those we assist. I've learned that each person requires more patience and understanding than others. This has taught me how crucial it is to actively listen, meet people where they are, and avoid assuming anything about their needs or backgrounds. I'm growing more at ease aiding and appreciating the need for empathy in all interactions.
Because of HIPP, I feel well-supported and equipped for future humanitarian initiatives as I continue to acquire new skills every day.