Molly Kasperbauer

Responsibilities

During my internship at AMOS, I supported community organizing efforts by assisting with outreach, event planning, and advocacy initiatives. I collaborated with staff and local leaders to address social justice issues, helped prepare materials for meetings and campaigns, and participated in strategy sessions focused on public policy and civic engagement. My role involved direct communication with community members, helping to amplify their voices and ensure their concerns were represented in AMOS's work.

Accomplishments

My greatest accomplishment during my internship at AMOS was helping to organize and lead a community listening session that brought together local residents, faith leaders, and public officials. I played a key role in coordinating logistics, promoting the event, and gathering input from participants. The session successfully highlighted critical community concerns, which were later used to inform AMOS’s advocacy strategies. Seeing how my efforts contributed to real conversations between the community and decision-makers was incredibly rewarding and affirmed my passion for social justice work.

Learning experience

The greatest lesson I learned during my internship at AMOS was the power of collective action and the importance of listening to community voices. I gained a deeper understanding of how organizing can drive meaningful change when people come together around shared concerns. I also learned the value of patience, persistence, and relationship-building in advocacy work. These experiences taught me that real change takes time, but it begins with empathy, respect, and a commitment to amplifying the voices of those most affected.

What advice would you give?

My advice for future students in Human Development and Family Studies is to take every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, whether through internships, volunteering, or community involvement. Real-world experiences will deepen your understanding of course concepts and help you discover where your passion lies. Build strong relationships with professors and mentors—they can offer guidance, support, and valuable connections. Most importantly, stay open-minded and compassionate; working with people requires patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to make a difference.