Pre-Service Orientation

Just a few hours ago, I returned from my PSO (Pre-Service Orientation) and have been catching up on emails and relaxing. Basically, around 100 of us serving in CA,OK, AK, AZ, CO, MO, TX and LA were gathered together in order to better understand what AmeriCorps is all about and to learn things about being in service as well as nonprofit work and poverty. We had group, solo and paired activities that allowed us to practice our elevator speeches, writing a targeted recruitment message and assessing what poverty is exactly. The time was well spent and some of us wish it were longer so that we could better understand everything. The sessions were so jammed packed with things to cover that I think some of it went over our heads.

Each day went from 7am breakfast to 5:30pm dinner with about four sessions each day. I arrived via taxi on Tuesday, which was an experience in itself to the hotel, Westin Westminster around 2:30pm. I used an app called Ztrip and was trying not to panic since I didn't get a confirmation at all until 5 minutes prior to the time I wanted a taxi (1:30). I told the man the address of the hotel and he didn't seem to understand his ipad's keypad at all since he took a full two minutes or more trying to type in the address. We finally got going after what seemed like more than five minutes of getting it put in correctly. Other than that, the trip went smoothly. Thank goodness, AmeriCorps is reimbursing me for the ride since it cost $45.

When I arrived to the hotel, my room wasn't ready. Really, at almost 3pm? This is a fancy hotel, by the way. Whatever. There were plenty of places to sit plus, I still had to check in with AmeriCorps. Within 45 minutes, I got a call saying my room was ready. So I went up and it was gorgeous! The bathroom was huge! the view was amazing! Every day I love Colorado more and more. The diverse landscape never ceases to bring a smile. So after unpacking, I took a walk since I had a little over two hours before dinner. Like every where else it seems, there's construction. On my walk, I passed an ice-skating rink, a man-made pond with a fountain in it and quite a few stores/restaurants.

One thing I must mention about PSO is the food! OMYGOODNESS! Our first meal was delicious. We had strips of tender beef, mashed potatoes, salad and rolls. For a fancy hotel, yea they better have good food, but I wasn't expecting this! Almost every meal was like this; just filled with mouthwatering you-have-have-seconds food.

The sessions were fun and I especially liked our instructor, Jean. She's very creative and allowed for all learning styles. The first day, she explained why there were markers and toys on the table. If we needed to do something while listening to her, we could. I am one of those who can't for obvious reasons so I only drew or colored during break time or if I finished my assignments early. I hope be able to keep in touch with her!

I met a lot of cool people and a few serving in Denver at various organizations. I love the fact that I could connect quite easily with most and am glad I made this choice more than ever! It's amazing to feel appreciated and valued versus how I was treated growing up. I've had many conversations filled with laughter and love. When you meet people who have a heart for others, it comes out every time one open's their mouth. I have a feeling I will always remember this experience.

Overall, I think it was an enjoyable time and I look forward to starting my year with Reading Partners as a VISTA! Thank you Lord for everything you've given me.