I have toured a local Jewish psychiatric hospital situated in Miami Florida city, viewing to about 25 people who are under rehabilitation, and joined in playing the piano, singing in a small choir and doing a concert for about four-hour involvement. It was indeed a pleasure to at least make these unfortunate citizens happy and to make them worry not of their misfortunes. It was such a great association as we had the opportunity also to provide food for them. In between the short art performances, we were able to make food packages, contribute time talking to them and serve them with those food packets. In fact, their hospital management, counselors, doctors and some parents and relatives who were within the compound also joined us during the visit. It was such a noble moment that made us feels the pride of giving back to the community, especially to the less fortunate ones. One element that I believe touched me the most was the conviction that I saw in these patients. Some are physically challenged too, but they did not shy off while their fellows were imitating the dances we were doing during the interval performances.
One incident during my engagement with one of the patients-in the company of his mother who identified himself as Carlos-about 22 years old exposed more in me than I had ever assumed. I realized that I had discovered how to care by feeling the pity for an individual instead of the sympathy. Again, I was able to see and picture how fast we can be reaped off a young, brilliant and prosperous life (Machizawa, 128-131). His battle against this mental disorder really touched me and perhaps is one experience that I will never stop to remember. I have never had such an experience to someone close to me. The pain I felt and the tears I shade are totally new to me. With Carlos I saw the other bitter side of life. But Carlos’ mother became a motivation for me. I was able to see the strength that can be evident within a loved one. She actually showed me to believe, when others would not (Eyler, 17-22). Considering the lifestyle that I witnessed within the facility, I feel very lucky and fortunate to have my current lifestyle other than being part of those at the mental facility.
Letter from the Supervisor
(Head of Faculty Department),
(Institution name),
Sub: -Verification letter for community service
I am herewith writing this letter to document and validate the community service offered by (Mr. / Ms. Student’s two names) at our Miami Jewish psychiatric hospital. (Student’s First name) is a truly passionate and dedicated person who provided (his/her) best possible works.
We at Jewish Psychiatric Hospital act for the sake of unprivileged mentally ill individuals and need aides from time to time to encourage us in this scheme. (Student’s First name) also, took part in popularizing our company purpose that granted us both the monetary assistance as well as society participation by many other groups and organizations.
I can endorse that (Student’s First name) has set about four hours of community service and (he/she) is always welcomed to visit again at (his/her) earliest convenience.
We would be happy to furnish any other information if required. You can contact us through (contact) or email us at (email address)
(Supervisor’s two names)
Jewish Psychiatric Hospital
Work Cited
Machizawa, Sayaka. "Power of Community Engagement: Benefits of Service-Learning on Psychology Graduate Students." PsycEXTRA (2011): 128-47. Web.
Eyler, Janet. "Reflection: Linking Service and Learning-Linking Students and Communities." Journal of Social Issues J Social Issues 58.3 (2012): 17-34. Web.
