I participated in community initiatives like Healthier Boynton Beach, engaging with caregivers in my local community. During Train the Brain, I attended a neuroarts caregiver support group and together we painted and moved. I learned how invaluable support and community are, and how even brief moments of respite and joy with others can be nourishing. I also participated in qualitative research, assisting in the facilitation of a sensemaking session, which was one of the highlights of my internship. Taking minutes for the Community Investment Committee, I was able to watch meeting recordings and listen to the generative discussions that took place amongst community leaders. I learned about community resources, local non-profit organizations, and grant making.

The most valuable piece of knowledge I received from my time at Palm Health Foundation is the importance of holding a vision of the future, even if it can’t be seen or is yet to be known, especially in our changing world and the power of knowledge and shared language that ripples throughout networks, evoking not only community change but change from within. One of the skills I am walking away with is leadership and what that looks like.

I learned that human relationships and the distribution of knowledge are central to change. During my time at Palm Health Foundation, I was exposed to a number of mentors, resources, and knowledge, as well as the PHF framework centered on complexity and how to navigate and convene for change in uncertain times. This meant leaning into curiosity, compassion, and humility, and being open to what emerges within the environment based on a combination of factors ultimately out of our control. I am certain that much of the change that has taken place has been from the inside out and has changed the way I look at the world. I’ve learned that by applying the PHF framework, we can transcend our ways of thinking and begin to think more relationally and communally, moving toward collaboration—leaning into trust and presence to guide us and create global change.

In a world where we can be consumed by the endless news cycle, we sometimes simply forget the good that is happening—how simple acts of kindness can truly change someone’s life. 

Growing up in Palm Beach County, I’ve seen many changes take place. When places change, it’s the people who hold the history and ultimately the vision of a bright future. As I move forward in my social work career, I remain forever grateful for the opportunity to be mentored by such innovative and kind individuals and will carry that with me as I continue serving the community that raised me.

Palm Health Foundation is committed to strengthening our local healthcare workforce. Amy’s story is a shining example of our investment in the future leaders of our community’s health advancement.