For Sarah, helping others has always come naturally. As an intern at The Center for Volunteer Caregiving and a graduate student working toward her Master’s in Social Work at UNC – Wilmington, she is passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. Her studies and her time at The Center reflect her dedication to advocacy, especially for those whose voices often go unheard.
Sarah’s connection to older adults started years ago with her very first job as a teenager in an elder care home. That experience showed her just how much she enjoyed being around seniors and listening to their stories. “I loved spending time with them and learning from their experiences,” she recalled. Those early memories stayed with her and eventually led her to The Center, where our mission to support older adults and caregivers deeply resonated with her.
Throughout her internship, Sarah has found the most rewarding moments came from spending time with care receivers and sharing stories, offering companionship, and helping them feel less isolated. She truly values the relationships she has built. “Just being there for someone who might feel lonely or overlooked can make such a difference,” she said. “I love knowing that what we do helps people stay independent in their homes and communities.”
Sarah feels a strong connection to The Center’s belief in “neighbor helping neighbor.” It perfectly matches her own values and her calling in social work to serve, advocate for, and lift up people who may feel forgotten. Through her time at The Center, she has witnessed firsthand how kindness and consistency can brighten someone’s day and build stronger communities. She believes that real change happens when people come together to create more compassionate systems. “Meaningful healthcare reform and thoughtful social policies can make life better for those who need support the most,” Sarah says.
A big source of inspiration for Sarah is her oldest son, who also became a social worker. Years ago, when he faced challenges as a teenager, Sarah learned how important it was to have someone stand up for you. “Being his advocate during that time opened my eyes to how many people need that kind of support,” she said. “That experience drives me every day to be that person for others.”
Sarah’s kindness and dedication fully capture what The Center for Volunteer Caregiving is all about, neighbors helping neighbors and making our community a little better every day.
