Emily - CASA - Blog 5

As day five comes to a close, it’s fascinating to reflect back on the work we’ve been able to accomplish in Huntsville. Today began bright and early with house visits for CASA’s clients. The group was split into four different factions to visit four clients in their homes. The purpose of these appointments was to inquire on the progress and status of clients. This was accomplished by asking patients about their medical history and any changes they may have experienced since the last time they visited with CASA personnel. Some of the great opportunities CASA provides are repairs and maintenance for individuals who qualify. In order to complete this, CASA asks each client what their biggest need is. In my case, I was able to chat with Mattie, a lively eighty-seven year old full of stories and wisdom. The best part of the morning was just being able to sit with Mattie and learn about her long life spent in Alabama. It was fascinating to hear about Mattie’s journey and the history of Huntsville as a city. Just being able to talk to someone brought a smile to her face, and I was once again filled with gratitude at the opportunity to spend important quality time with such amazing people.

The latter part of the day was spent making food and necessity deliveries to clients in the countryside outside of Huntsville. CASA provides many important particulars throughout the city area such as non-perishables, blankets, clothing items, and other important necessities. We had to make seven separate deliveries, and for each person it seemed that those items really meant something special. It was an amazing opportunity to work one-on-one with the clients and individuals CASA and the city of Huntsville work diligently to provide for. As the week comes to a close, it’s great to see the things CASA has been able to do with only the short time we were here. We’ve been met with such kindness and hospitality throughout our stay in Huntsville. All together, this week has taught me a lot about service work, and it has dutifully proven, once again, that making a difference, however big or small, can be as simple as one wishes it to be.