A Transformative Experience
My internship with Sharsheret this summer was nothing short of transforming. I had known about Sharsheret and its mission for years, having volunteered on occasion, walked 5Ks, and purchased delicious baked goods from their bake sales (just one of their many fundraising events). Yet, my hands-on internship during the summer of 2023 was the experience that had the most dramatic and substantive effect on my love, appreciation, respect, and admiration for this benevolent organization. Having the opportunity to play some small role on the Sharsheret team and to work in such a warm and welcoming environment made my ordinary and mundane day-to-day tasks and projects more meaningful and fulfilling.
Sharsheret has always held a special place in my heart. When my grandmother was diagnosed with breast cancer for the second time, the then-fledgling organization utilized all its resources to help her in whatever way it could. The caring and supportive staff was always available to answer any of her questions, address her concerns, offer advice, and provide resources.
I will personally never forget the way Rochelle Shoretz A”H, founder of Sharsheret and close friend of my family, embraced and supported my parents during my father’s battle with lung cancer which ultimately took him from us. Ruchie’s legacy and imprint lives on through Sharsheret, and her influence can be noted in every project and development. Throughout my internship experience here at Sharsheret, I was fortunate to observe first hand all the life-affirming efforts that this organization accomplishes. I have a newfound and deeper appreciation for Sharsheret and for all the valiant women who run it, as well as for the less than fortunate ones who benefit from its compassionate attentiveness. Ruchie’s dreams for the organization have certainly been realized and probably have surpassed even her own initial expectations. May her memory be forever a blessing and inspiration.