St. Bernard's- Lauren

I've been to Buffalo on numerous occasions, mostly because both of my parents were born and grew up there. Our visits consist mainly of seeing family and going their favorite parts of the city, which is always fun to do. However, I was excited to come on this mission trip specifically because it would give me an opportunity to explore the areas in the city my family had always warned me to avoid. I hoped to make a difference in the city that means so much to me, and I have not been disappointed so far. On the trip, I have had the opportunity to renovate a building with my group where people returning to society from prison will stay and get the help they need to get back on their feet. Today, I  even met some of the returning citizens while making cookies. Both have been eye opening experiences for many different reasons, including but not limited to how small things like painting a wall can change something from a simple building to a home, how kind and passionate people who committed crimes can be, and how a small group of people who truly believe in justice and a successful life for all can make a huge difference, even if it is in just one area of New York. I am so lucky that I have been able to meet the people working and living in the buildings my group and I are working in and experience the another side of the city most of my family calls home. Everything I've seen and done makes me want to try to do the same in my own community back home, even if it is small and simply brings hope to people who need it.