Month: August 2018

Sarah Richman joined us as our new Development and Communications Manager this summer! We sat down with her at Tivoli’s Astounding Magic Supply Co. to get to know her a little better:

What drew you to 826DC?
I’m a writer, author, and poet who spent most of her childhood reading. 826DC makes my inner child and my outer adult feel right at home! The books, the mission, the values, the cozy nooks and corners, the humor, the sense of delight, the people…all wonderful. I’m glad that this place exists and am tremendously honored to be a part of it.

What’s one unusual thing on your desk right now?
I actually have a picture of someone else’s dog! You don’t have to own everything that makes you happy. This little guy’s name is Scout, and he lives somewhere in Oregon.

If you were a magician, what would be your signature magic trick?
Pulling snacks out of a hat!

What inspired you to get involved with this kind of work, and why do you think it’s so important?

Working in development and communications is, essentially, telling stories for a living. I wanted to do that in a way that would also make the world a little brighter. That’s what I do here. I tell stories that help people find, support, and engage with this magical space—and then go on to create stories of their own! Building a career out of words is a beautiful thing; doubly so if you can use that career to serve others and to make your community a better place.

This summer, the Walking Gemstones Summer Writing Intensive Class of 2018 created and published “Life in the City: Past, Present, and Future.” The book reflects a two-week intellectual journey full of wild animals, towering buildings, urban gardens, and sprawling maps.

Continue reading “From the Pages of “Life in the City: Past, Present, and Future””

Summer is quickly coming to a close. After a wonderful programming season, our summer cohort shared some advice for future interns:

“My one tip to future interns would be to make an effort to visit our community partners. Not only does it help you become aware of the schools, community centers, and libraries you are about to enter, but it also shows that you, along with 826DC, respect the fact that you are going to enter their space. It helps to build relationships and also makes it easier on the day of the workshops because you already are familiar with the spaces!”
-Carol Uphus, Educational Programming and Publishing Intern

“My advice for the new cohort of interns is to take initiative and speak up when you have any ideas, comments, or concerns about programming. The 826DC team values what the interns have to say, that’s why we were hired, and using your voice and sharing any kind of knowledge or insight to with the team is encouraged in the space.”
-Maddie Baker, Educational Programming and Publishing Intern

“I think one tip I definitely have is that you should be willing to jump in feet-first. I certainly had to! I think another tip I would have is to not be afraid to try new things and to suggest new ideas. There is a lot of room for creativity at 826DC.”
-Minrose Straussman, Summer On-Site Learning Fellow

“Definitely don’t be afraid to ask questions. You’re an intern, you’re not expected to know everything nor should you act like you do. It helps open pathways to developing relationships and connections if you’re open to feedback and willing to give it, too.”
-Anying Guo, Non-Profit Communications & Development Intern

Interested in taking them up on their advice? Visit our internship page to learn more about current openings and to apply.