02.03.10
A Change in Perspective
Each day as I commute from my home in Lawrence, MA to work at Merrimack College in North Andover, I seem to transport myself from one world into another. These two entirely different communities are worlds apart economically, socially, and culturally. Historically, the city of Lawrence has been home to many different immigrant groups, and its current population of roughly 70,000 is largely Hispanic. Just minutes from Lawrence sits North Andover, a town with a Caucasian predominance that ranks among the most affluent suburbs of Boston. A ride down any of the state roads that connect the two present a clear transition from prosperity to poverty.
As Coordinator of Volunteerism and Service, my role often takes the form of an ambassador between these two vastly different places. As I drive Merrimack students to soup kitchens, shelters, and youth development centers in Lawrence, I watch them emerge from their comfort zones and open their minds with each new experience. I especially enjoy working with those students who have decided to try weekly service for the first time. As we pile into the vans to enter a city that is unknown to many newcomers, I can sense a certain degree of hesitation among them. I reassure myself that it won’t be long until this hesitation is replaced with fulfillment.
Upon arrival at any of our sites, students are always greeted warmly by fellow volunteers, coordinators, guests, and residents. Immediately following their entrance, I see the hesitation melt away with relief as they are welcomed into a community that is brought together in its willingness to serve. Soon after, they are hard at work serving meals, chatting with guests, playing games with kids, or getting to know other volunteers at the site. Often before we know it, our two hours of work are complete, and as we say our goodbyes to the remaining guests, residents, and fellow volunteers, it feels as if we are leaving behind a family that can’t wait for us to return.
There is never a dull moment in the return trip to Merrimack after a service trip. Students openly share their experiences with energy and enthusiasm, and often ask for my clipboard so that they can sign up for future trips even before we arrive back at school. They joke and laugh together, forming a bond with one another despite the fact that just hours ago, they were mere acquaintances. As we reenter North Andover, the transition doesn’t seem so harsh anymore. Usually the students are so immersed in conversation that they don’t even realize the change until we’ve arrived back on campus. They depart as friends, often sharing meals together in the campus center afterward.
To repeatedly witness this kind of transformation among the students is my greatest joy in working as an Augustinian Volunteer. While students may enter with minds of uncertainty and fear, they leave amongst the warmth of a community of new friends, the fulfillment of giving, and a sense of awareness of their neighboring community in need. With experiences like this, it’s no surprise that our weekly service trips have garnered more interest than there are seats in the van.
Alex Gallucci
Lawrence, MA
2009-2010