Tayler Esherick is a rising senior at the University of Maryland. She started at DASH volunteering with Art Group and has continued to work with DASH as a summer front office volunteer.
My first visit to Cornerstone was through a Women’s Leadership course I took at the University of Maryland. Our Professor partnered with DASH to discuss domestic violence and the characteristics of a low-barrier shelter. First, my classmates and I talked to DASH professionals while in the classroom. Then, we came to Cornerstone and talked with some of the residents as well as the staff. My experience at DASH made me want to get more involved, so I started volunteering in the Children’s Art Group.
I have always enjoyed working with children and was very excited to work with the kids of DASH. I absolutely loved volunteering for art group, all of the children were excited about the art projects, and tried their best to create a masterpiece each week. I believe that art is a great way to creatively express yourself which has been extremely beneficial for these children. One of the best parts about art group is that there is a new and exciting activity each week for the kids to engage in so there is never a dull moment. At the end of the year, the children put on an art show where they pick their favorite pieces which are framed, and displayed in the hallways. During the art show the children show our guests and donors all the art work and discuss how each piece was made. My favorite part of volunteering for DASH is interacting with the children and their parents. I love being able to give the children an opportunity for fun outside of the school day and their apartment.
Why should you choose DASH on June 19th for Do More 24?
DASH has a very unique mission that I believe is extremely effective when it comes to helping their residents. The low barrier housing model that they use puts trust in the residents and gives them responsibilities that they might not have in another shelter. DASH also stresses this idea of re-centering, where you address problems by figuring out how you, your family, or any other relationship has become unbalanced. Re-centering can help survivors bring themselves back to equilibrium of mind and body. Overall, I believe DASH is a great place for volunteers who want an enriching experience.
Donate to DASH for Do More 24, a 24 hour online giving campaign run by the United Way of the National Capital Area. Click here for more information.
