At NourishMKE, we have the pleasure of working with local universities to bring in service learners and interns each year. While working in our food centers, our interns create projects and deliver programming related to their coursework. As our interns develop professionally, their fresh perspectives and ideas help our organization grow.

Today, we’re hearing from Yaritza, our Food Education Intern. Each week, she helps prepare a recipe for our food education program at the Mitchell Food Center. Outside of that, she works alongside staff members to improve and refine our food education programs. Her background as a Certified Nursing Assistant and coursework in Public Health means she approaches nutrition education with an intersectional lens; considering both the visible and invisible barriers to accessing health. Thank you, Yaritza, for your work this semester!

Q: How would you describe your experience interning so far? 

A: My internship experience has been really positive so far. The team welcomed me with open arms and made me feel very included from day one. I enjoy working with such supportive and friendly people, which has made the transition into my role smoother and more enjoyable. The collaborative environment here has really enhanced my learning experience.”

Q: What advice would you give to people interested in volunteering/interning with Nourish?  

A: If you’re thinking about volunteering or interning with Nourish, be ready to go with the flow since plans often change. Being able to solve problems quickly will be very helpful, too, because you’ll need to adjust to what families need on the spot. Speaking another language is also a big advantage, as many families who visit don’t speak English as their first language, so it really helps with communication. 

Q: Why do you find food education important?  

A: Food education is important to me because it directly addresses the challenges I’ve experienced firsthand. Growing up in a low-income area in the United States, my family and I often struggled to maintain a healthy lifestyle due to financial limitations and limited access to nutritious food options. Our neighborhood lacked nearby grocery stores offering fresh and healthy choices, while fast-food options were plentiful, making it easy to fall into unhealthy habits. These challenges not only affected my family but also many people in our community, leading to issues like obesity and diabetes. As someone who has been impacted by these challenges, I am passionate about food education as a way to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge to make healthier choices and overcome barriers to accessing nutritious food. 

Q: What does “nourishment” mean to you? 

A: Nourishment means having not just food, but the ability to access, afford, and enjoy foods that support a healthy lifestyle. It means creating conditions where nutritious foods are as available and convenient as the unhealthy options, allowing every family, regardless of income, to make choices that nourish body and mind. This disparity in access is not only a local problem but a global one, affecting countless families and limiting their potential to live healthier lives. 

Say “Hello” to Yaritza on Saturday mornings at the Food Demo table!

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