Learning From the Mission: Gracie’s PCAT Experience

When Gracie began her first year of law school at Stetson, she had the opportunity to serve as a community associate with PCAT. What began as a chance to work alongside a local nonprofit became an experience that connected closely with something she had already been thinking about for years.

As an undergraduate, Gracie had worked as an after-school tutor in a similar program. That experience sparked an interest in one day creating a nonprofit of her own.

Working with PCAT brought that idea a little closer to reality.

“This semester with PCAT has really helped that idea grow and become more realistic.”

Her role gave her an opportunity to see parts of nonprofit work that aren’t always visible from the outside. She learned more about the legal considerations, fundraising and day-to-day operations that help an organization like PCAT carry out its mission.

Along the way, she also had the opportunity to work closely with Gigi and see firsthand the commitment behind the organization.

“I have learned a lot about the legal implications, the fundraising, and the operations behind PCAT, and have just had a wonderful time with Gigi.”

For Gracie, however, the experience ultimately came back to the reason that work exists in the first place: the children.

She describes literacy as an opportunity capable of changing the direction of a child’s life.

“Learning to read is just the most special and life-changing opportunity.”

Her time as a community associate allowed Gracie not only to contribute to PCAT, but also to learn from an organization doing the kind of community-based work she hopes may someday become part of her own future.

And after seeing PCAT from both sides—the mission children experience and the work required behind the scenes to make it possible—her assessment was simple:

“This is a very special organization, and is changing kids’ lives.”