Celebrating Sierra Bolton

Kassy and Macey with Social Work Intern Sierra Bolton

We are thankful to be a partner with the University of South Carolina School of Social Work which enables us to mentor social work interns. This year, we were fortunate to be paired with Sierra Bolton, a second-year Master’s student with a focus on health and mental health and a Specialist in the National Guard. Sierra was a tremendous asset across our programs. In particular, she worked very closely with Macey Silano, our Mental Health Program Manager, assisting with launching the Uplift Lexington County movement. Sierra was dedicated, committed, and hard working. She took on new challenges with grace and openness. We were so thankful for her time with Serve & Connect and are thankful to the School of Social Work for providing us this opportunity. Thank you, Sierra!

Reflection from Sierra Bolton

There are so many things that I have been able to take away from my time at with Serve & Connect. Coming in, I had a biased mindset about what to expect from the social work profession as a whole, but that was quickly changed. I have learned that there are so many more ways that social work can be applied to serve those around you. Serve & Connect has allowed me to understand social work in organizations as well as communities. With my time at Serve & Connect, I have had so many great experiences, learning the ins and outs of macro social work. I have been able to see what really goes into organizing projects and outreaches to benefit the community as a whole. Serve & Connect has been nothing less than great.  The team is made up of very devoted and driven individuals who all bring a different aspect to the table. Being able to work with each member of the team has allowed me to gain better insights and perspectives on how the organization works together to serve the greater needs of the community. 

While with Serve & Connect, I was able to expand my social work skills and competencies to include identifying as a professional social worker and conduct oneself, accordingly; engaging in diversity and differences in practice; and engaging in policy practice to advance social and economic well-being and to deliver effective social work services for individuals of the community. All of these skills have better equipped me to continue to pursue my desire of becoming a social worker, and strengthened both my social work skills as well as the importance of networking while in this profession. Overall, Serve & Connect has been a phenomenal place to gain knowledge and skills my foundation year of field practicum. I’ve greatly appreciated the great people and experience I’ve had while working with this wonderful team of people.