Community Partner: Martha’ s Place Intern: Corina Zisman Site Supervisors: Joy Lanier
What is Martha’ s Place? Martha’ s Place is a Maryland state-certified recovery program for women overcoming drug addiction and homelessness located near Baltimore’ s communities of Sandtown-Winchester and Upton.
" Being a student at Johns Hopkins University, I am an insider to so many communities. Not only the students at Hopkins, however also the alumni, the staff, and many other extended groups. However, there is one group of which I have blatantly known I was an outsider. The Baltimore community, while always surrounding me, has felt beyond my reach. I have tried to adventure into the city, go to the“ local” spots, and become a member, however my presence as the“ Hopkins’ tourist” has always been identifiable from miles away. Although I was not a part of the community, I have always felt a tremendous debt to Baltimore. A debt that could not be repaid with a few hours a week tutoring, or a single day of service every year. However, working at Martha ' s Place, was the opportunity I had been searching for. Although eight weeks felt too short, working with and learning from citizens of Baltimore who were actively fighting to strengthen and support the city taught me so much.
These past weeks, I have not only worked in an office, however, I have also learned how to feel like a member of Baltimore. For the first time, I truly know and have connected with members of the community who aren ' t related to Hopkins. I still feel indebted to Baltimore City, however now I also feel indebted to these individuals. I am so grateful for their willingness to accept me, despite my short stay. I am touched by their knowledge of this city, and their interest in teaching me. At the beginning of my internship, I had no idea how sad I would be to leave. No idea how desperate I am to ensure that this isn ' t the last time I see these heroes.
Starting the fall semester, I ' m hopeful and committed that I can now merge these two communities. I can be a Hopkins tourist, but also a citizen of Baltimore. Although I ' ve been indebted to Baltimore, I now also feel invested. I am dedicated to continuing to learn about this incredible city, and to be an active member of not only Johns Hopkins, but now also Baltimore."-Corina
• Researched and contacted potential community partners. Worked to fill the empty spaces in our program, and ensure that the community knew what our program offered.
• Supported in administrative duties, scheduling interviews, creating organization systems for files, and completing chart audits.
• Individually worked with residents to assist in the job application process, from editing resumes, to calling employers and practicing interview skills.
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