Service can foster personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world around us. For many students, service work becomes not just a task but a transformative experience, shaping perspectives and instilling values that endure long after the volunteer shifts end.

At Metro Caring, a Denver nonprofit dedicated to addressing food insecurity and supporting the community, Senior Valeria Naranjo found more than just a place to fulfill her service hours. She discovered a platform for empathy, growth, and connection. 

Valeria initially faced challenges during her ninth-grade service. She wasn’t excited about navigating the pandemic protocols and adjusting to unfamiliar tasks. However, time brought a newfound appreciation for Metro Caring's mission and welcoming community.

As her sophomore year unfolded, so did Valeria’s passion for service. She performed various tasks at Metro Caring, from making appointments and packing emergency food bags, to providing essential documents like ID vouchers. Valeria interacted with diverse individuals and witnessed firsthand the impact of Metro Caring on the community's well-being. By junior year, Valeria’s dedication earned her a position where she guided and trained new volunteers.

Gradually, Valeria’s journey became not just about fulfilling requirements but about internal growth. She learned patience, gained a deeper understanding of community and justice, and found unity in collective efforts to support those in need. Through service, she discovered a connection to something larger than herself, embracing the values of compassion, empathy, and responsibility to one another.

As Valeria’s time at SMA draws to a close, the skills she developed at Metro Caring around communication, problem-solving, and cultural understanding now form the foundation for her future endeavors. Her direct interactions sparked a commitment to service that will continue long after graduation. 

Valeria’s experiences serve as a testament to the transformative power of service and even opened the door for her to work for Metro Caring. As Valeria stated:

“Last summer, I had the fantastic opportunity to work for Metro Caring; I filled the role of Community Connector-Language Justice, supporting Community Development. I was beyond thankful for this fantastic opportunity. I had the opportunity to interact with clients, and through these experiences, I've grown both professionally and personally, gaining insights that I'll carry forward with me.”

When asked about interactions or observations that had a lasting effect on her, Valeria shared: 
“Just seeing all the immigrants from Venezuela walking in with their babies stood out because it made me realize that all these moms would do anything for their kids to have a better future and great opportunities.” 
“I learned that everyone is going through something different in their lives, and we need to be open-minded and try to understand and help them in any way possible. Just by providing them with a bag of food, it means a lot to them.”
“I learned about the problems in other parts of the world and how they can impact a whole family. I also learned to be patient with others (I wasn't patient with people before I started at Metro Caring my first year). It gave me a deeper understanding of different cultures and communities, allowing me to be more open-minded.” 

From freshman uncertainties to leadership roles and eventually employment, each moment with Metro Caring has shaped Valeria’s perspective and fueled her commitment to service. As graduation approaches, Valeria carries the lessons learned, the values embraced, and a steadfast dedication to serving others.