Author: Hannah Valencia, senior
This summer, I worked at Part of the Solution (POTS), a Bronx-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing the stability of its clients through a comprehensive range of services that address both immediate needs and long-term challenges. During my internship with the Director of External Relations and Communications, I applied the social justice lens cultivated in the FCRH Honors Program to real-world contexts. Indeed, POTS embraces a deeply human-centered approach, embedding its commitment to community-building into each facet of its operations.
This ethos emerged most clearly during my client interviews, each contributing to the creation of a testimonial database. I was afforded a unique perspective on the lived experience of clients, including a man who sought refuge at POTS after fleeing political persecution in his home country. His recollection was vivid; he not only recounted the moment he first encountered the organization but also spoke with deep reverence about the first staff member he met, referring to him as a brother. Years later, their bond endures, a testament to the meaningful relationships POTS nurtures—relationships rooted in dignity, trust, and care that outlast the immediate provision of support.
Furthermore, beyond client engagement, I also contributed to the organization’s broader communications strategy. Most notably, I have been closely involved in the development of POTS’ upcoming Giving Tuesday campaign, participating in every stage of both the behind-the-scenes and public-facing processes. From conducting interviews with clients, donors, and volunteers to editing final video content for social media, I have worked to ensure that every narrative faithfully reflects the values, voices, and lived experiences that comprise the POTS community.
Ultimately, I hope to pursue a career in a communications-related field, such as marketing or public relations, and this internship has provided me with a strong foundation for that path. Indeed, under my manager’s guidance, I have cultivated a versatile skill set through diverse responsibilities across internal communications, social media, and public relations. Whether drafting board bulletins, monitoring engagement metrics across social media platforms, or writing press releases for key events, each task has provided meaningful, hands-on experience aligned with my long-term professional goals.