Interning at PeopleFund within the Development and Communications department was a wonderful experience that I will always cherish. As it was only my second foray into the real world workplace, I had very little idea of what to expect. I knew that PeopleFund was a community development financial institution whose mission of helping the underserved members of our community was near and dear to my heart, but I had no idea what their business culture would be like, or how I would fit into the mix. My reservations were assuaged almost immediately as the staff was all smiles, all the time, and seemed genuinely invested in my success as an intern, allowing me to quickly feel like a valued member of the team.
I was able to get straight to work writing client success features, helping search for new donors and partners, and even gaining some experience in event coordination through helping to organize East Night – a casino extravaganza of sorts and PeopleFund’s biggest annual fundraising event. These experiences allowed me to witness firsthand how PeopleFund has diligently cultivated small business growth throughout the state of Texas over the past 20 years. As time went on, I was able to see the strong bonds formed with clients through business education and constant support which distinguishes PeopleFund from other community banks. What I loved the most about my experience was the opportunity to see the smiles on the faces of small business owners who had achieved new levels of success through their perseverance, vision, and a little assistance from the stellar team at PeopleFund.
Although I am at present unsure of my long term career vision, (an issue that I had hoped would be resolved as a graduating senior – but isn’t) my internship at PeopleFund placed me one important step in the right direction. I realized that I won’t ever consider myself satisfied in my career unless I am not only working to strengthen myself but those most deserving in society around me. I will never truly soar unless I can be the wind beneath someone else’s wings. Thank you to Gary, Amber, and the rest of the PeopleFund staff for having me, I wish you and your clients continued success in the future!