Meet Georgia’s Member of the Month

Crystal Dawson, Youth Villages Inner Harbour AmeriCorps

"I serve because it gives me a greater sense of being and allows me to explore, learn and experience with the support of a safe and loving community." Crystal Dawson

Dedication to Service

Crystal was voted for this statewide Member of the Month recognition by her peers in the Youth Villages Inner Harbour AmeriCorps program. Though many competent candidates were presented, Life Skills Team member, Crystal Dawson, easily led the nominations.  Here is what her team members say about her service: “…has been really consistent all year”, “…always willing to help during service day”, “consistently brings a strong positive attitude”, “always is willing to step up”, “always is open to helping people”, “has very creative ideas and activities for the kids”, “always positive”, “knows how to motivate people around her”, “willingness to help other members”, “because of her life skills cooking sessions”.

Though Crystal is a first year member, she was recruited from the Youth Villages Inner Harbour Campus Recreation Therapy internship program, so she has a bit of the flair of a second year member about her.  She easily transitioned into the program and has proven to be a valued, dependable team member and service leader (submitted by Youth Villages Inner Harbour AmeriCorps staff and members).

Favorite Service Quote

                                      " The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of other" - Ghandi

Life After AmeriCorps

" Ultimately, my goal after AmeriCorps is to get a job as a Recreation Therapist working with youth in some capacity whether it is a psychiatric environment, a school or at a community center. My plan for getting there is a little uncertain, as I am considering going back to school for my Masters degree, going into the job force or applying for another service year with AmeriCorps.”

The Youth Villages Inner Harbour Campus is one of Georgia’s largest psychiatric residential treatment programs for seriously, emotionally disturbed children and youth. Our goal is to return children to a less restrictive environment to continue their progress through intensive in-home services, with their family when possible, or therapeutic foster care when it is not.

“I will get things done for America – to make our people safer,
smarter, and healthier. I will bring Americans together to strengthen communities.
Faced with apathy, I will take action. Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground.
Faced with adversity, I will persevere. I will carry this commitment with me this year and beyond.
I am an AmeriCorps member and I will get things done!”