Avery Winters: Collegiate Internship Participant from SCSU
I had the privilege of interning with Winning Ways non profit organization of New Haven. Over the course of my internship I was in charge of controlling the social media accounts as well as attending events that were held.
Over the few months working with Winning Ways I was privileged to attend two of the Sip and Paint events. The first being in Waterbury, CT (in partnership with CCAR of Waterbury) where I was able to set up before having to leave early.
The second event was our Blossoms and Brushes: Sip and Paint Celebration where it was held on Boston Post Road in Orange, CT. The event was held at a Raymour and Flanigan as we got the privilege of partnering with them. This was a very eye opening experience for me in my professional but also personal growth. I attended the event early so I was the first person there which allowed me to talk with the manager of Raymour. I was able to get insight about how important it is for large corporations to work with smaller nonprofits. The manager told me how their specific corporation was mandated to work with at least two non profits.
Not only is it good for the soul, but helps people realize that large corporations can help and are not selfish. Once the event started I was able to see all the different aspects and types of people that are vital to run such a smooth event. I was able to meet Wilford Charles (Creative Arts Director), who arrived with all the materials needed, the canvas to paint which he created himself, and his DJ stand. I also saw the help from a pizza place that donated food and drink.
I also was able to have a relationship with Libby, who as the Director of Communications was able to pull this event all together. As people arrived to paint I noticed the sense of community beaming throughout the room. Almost every person that arrived at the event seemed to already know and have connections with the others that attend. Every person was welcomed with open arms. Throughout the event conversation, laughter, and support of others beam everywhere. I was able to truly appreciate the coming together of a community. More specifically I loved the feeling of love and womanly support, as there were men who attended, the majority were women.
This was a great internship as I was able to see the benefits a non profit can do for others lives, no matter how large or small the organization is.
Avery Winters
