Social Work Internship at Hearth

An Invaluable Experience

By Brynn Thompson, from the 2008 Summer Newsletter

Brynn Thompson was a social work intern, through Boston University, with Hearth during the 2007-2008 school year.

When I chose my first-year internship as a social work student at Boston University, I had only one requirement: to work with older adults. In fact, my desire to work with elders is what prompted me to return to graduate school. My internship at the Anna Bissonnette House (ABH) began in September 2007; before that, I had never heard of Hearth or the problem of elder homelessness.

Growing old is a part of life’s journey, yet in America our culture is centered on retaining our youth. As a future social worker I understood many of the obstacles that older adults face, but I was not fully aware of the number of elderly who are at risk of becoming homeless or are currently experiencing homelessness. Interning at Hearth has greatly broadened my perspectives on the challenges that older adults face everyday.

My internship at Hearth was an amazing experience that provided me with valuable clinical skills I will continue to use throughout my career. I greatly enjoyed my time at ABH and the valuable professional support provided by Melissa Russo, Program Social Worker, and Deborah Cutler, Director of Behavioral Health. I was fortunate to build relationships with the residents and staff at ABH and Hearth.

I wish Hearth continued success, and I thank everyone for providing me with such a wonderful experience.