Hands-On Education

Learning from Staff and Residents

By Michele Cauch, from the 2006 Spring Newsletter

Michele Cauch was a social work intern from Salem State College during the 2005-2006 school year.  Currently she is the Planning and Policy Development Officer at St. Paul's L'Amoreaux Seniors Centre in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.

My relationship with Hearth started in 2003 when I volunteered at the Bishop Street House.  I enjoyed my time as a volunteer and was thrilled when I was invited back to Hearth to complete  my second year placement.  Working with my clinical social work supervisor, Kathy McDonald, has greatly broadened my understanding of mental health issues as they relate to older adults.

Working with the residents was the best part of my internship.  I practiced clinical skills with them, and I also learned a lot from them.  I learned how to knit with the elders in the Knitting Group.  Two others taught me to play chess, and another taught me to speak Arabic.  It will be difficult to say good-bye to my clients who I've gotten to know so well over the course of the academic year.

My time at Hearth was been a wonderful learning experience.  I have been very lucky to be surrounded by such talented and dedicated people.  I wish Hearth continued success in their mission to end elder homelessness.