#theVIPexperience Post #122: Arianna Richter

It only took one weekend at a homeless shelter. One night surrounded by people who managed to not only survive the cards dealt to them, but also crack a smile and laugh in spite of it. This is what started my search for an organization that serves underserved populations, and then I stumbled upon Crossroads Health Center. Reading the mission statement and taking into consideration my recent experiences, I knew I had to volunteer here. I knew I wanted to fight for the rights of this community that decides to not only to survive, but to live despite the obstacles thrown at them day after day.

And when I did receive the acceptance email, I was in complete shock. An overwhelming sense of purpose flooded through me. Now, whenever I am frustrated with a difficult referral or grow weary from the shift, I remember why I volunteer at Crossroads. I remember that it is not about me, but rather it is about the fight for the people who have been long too ignored in a city that can be apathetic. It is about shouldering some of the burden of these patients as these obstacles become increasingly overwhelming. These underprivileged communities carry much pain not only because of health inequities, but also the psychological impact of discrimination, and sometimes we as a nation become insensitive to the cries as we keep our distance. But Crossroads makes it real and personable. Crossroads illuminated the need for awareness with action and allowed me to witness this inequity that the media talks about. Before coming to Crossroads, I knew of health inequities, but I never considered how the details can impact healthcare access such as the limited access to a cellphone, lack of available transportation, language barriers, health concerns, and family situations. Nor could I ever have imagined all the complications of insurance that are bound to arise when communicating with patients and hospitals and the stress associated with it. And I only now know the tip of the iceberg. 

I am forever grateful for the opportunity I have to serve this wonderful, heartwarming community one referral at a time. But, beyond this internship, I am grateful because this opened my mind to serve in these underserved communities as I go into my healthcare career. What a privilege it is to continue to serve a population that takes the cards that are dealt to them and still chooses to fight, so I cannot sit back while others take action. We must push forward.