Thursday, November 26, 2009

A year defending the constitution

When I decided to apply for an Americorps position I knew it was technically a "government" organization, however, being seen as a National Volunteer I did not think I would have to take "the oath." You know, the oath that every government official takes before entering into office, or secret service. It was even more surprising that "the oath," as I like to call it, includes this little dozy, "I, [name], do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic." Um what? My mind quickly jumps to a slue of questions, such as, what enemies? How, on just a three day pre-service training am I expected to stop international espionage?? Well...my question was soon answered as our overly cheery director yelled out, "Who is our domestic enemy?" and the hall answered back "POVERTY!" Well, needless to say I found that rather amusing since all Americorps volunteers are on a set allowance personally making them live IN poverty for one year. So, how am I suppose to defend what I am actually participating in for a year? Maybe it is like being an undercover cop...you have to infiltrate and gain trust of a community and then BAM you arrest them and they never saw you coming. However, not being a cop or having ever been "under cover" this doesn't seem like this plan was well thought out.
Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining about the pay, in fact, $10,000 a year is more than I have every made. As a recent graduate from grad school my entire life has been funded by federal grants, loans and the minimum wage, so an actual set amount of money each month, with basic health care seems like a sweet deal to me. Fortunately, I do not own anything so my expenses will be less than someone who has mortgage payments, car payments, credit card debit, children etc. Nevertheless, I still think living in Philadelphia, with the recent tax hike, rise in transportation cost and general costliness of "hipster cafes" and local groceries this is going to be tough. Budgeting my spending and keeping accurate records of bill payments will also be a new experience for me. What will not be that new to me however, is the actual Non-profit work. Since undergrad I have worked/interned with many NGO's/Non-profit organizations before and know the craziness that is the non-profit world. However, this organization is dealing with a population which I am not really familiar...immigrant seniors. I've worked with immigrant women/children who could speak English. Which is pretty much the exact opposite of who I will be working for this year. However, I hope that I gain valuable experience that will make me marketable in the field, network with the non-profits in Philadelphia, and be successful at meeting my goals for my VISTA site. This week marks the rest of my year as a "servant in solidarity."

Peace,

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