An Intern’s Perspective: Meghan Costello

Last spring I had the opportunity to travel to Rwanda, Africa and speak with women coffee farmers about their concerns. I found that their main two worries were about money and health. It greatly disturbed me that these women worked year round tending to coffee most Americans guzzle every morning, and are paid less than 3% of the price you see on shelves.

Upon returning from my adventure, I wanted to find some way to help those who are struggling in developing countries.  I visited the Next Step Office at Harwood Union High School, staffed by Ellen Bearings and Rachael Potts. After a few phone calls, Rachael arranged an internship at Grounds for Health (GFH), an international nonprofit that establishes sustainable health care programs for women in coffee-growing regions.

As an intern at the office I am not a bystander, but an active member of the program. The experience has been priceless, for I am not only aiding the good work happening abroad, but also learning how non-profit organizations function—from the inside out. Over the course of the year, I have assisted with events such as the Grounds for Health Annual Green Coffee Auction. By focusing on outreach, GFH made over $140,000 in this fundraiser.  I feel confidant that the information I have obtained over the past year will aid me in my further endeavors in the non-profit world. I appreciate the support of the Next Step Office as well as the dedicated individuals at Grounds for Health throughout my experience.