OTA 2330 OT Modalities III Lab

Service-Learning Reflection

                On November 19 of 2024 the clients from Ability Inclusion Services (AIS) arrived for a group session. The activity planned and implemented involved assembling hygiene kits that would be donated to 4th Street Clinic, a place for people experiencing homelessness who can receive health care.

         The kits contained several items including, shampoo and conditioner, socks, hand warming packets, lotion, wipes, and more. Each item was placed in a nice bag with an SLCC logo. The clients each put an item in and passed the bag to the next person down the line.

         All of the OTA students aiding in this session, including myself, set up materials and chairs complete with name tags so that each client would know where to sit upon arrival. When the van pulled up we ran out to meet them and assist them indoors and to their seats. I made sure that the clients stayed on task when they would get confused or distracted. I asked them several engaging, open ended questions to work on communication and to build rapport. After making certain they were back in the van and on their way, I participated in clean up efforts.

         I learned some things about myself during the course of these group sessions while working with the people from the AIS. First of all, I have never had the kind of opportunities or time to spend with people who have a lower cognitive function like I have here. I was nervous and not sure how I would respond, but with this program you’re thrown in and you have no choice but to get to know them. I have surely missed out! I understand how special and beautiful, funny and capable they are. I see that they are occupational beings with interests, preferences, talents and personalities that only require a bit of help from us.

         Throughout the course of this program, I have spent a great deal of time involved in service. We were required to seek out organizations within our communities who focus on serving those in need. I was not aware of just how many organizations were operating to aid in various aspects for people in need.  

Over the course of the psychosocial clinic, I have developed the skill to see how crafts can be utilized as a means to work on various goals with clients. I have learned to be flexible in my application during sessions and I have learned how to grade up or down for clients when there is a need. I would like to think I have gotten better at keeping track of many individuals at once when running a group session and how to document for a group session.

I’m grateful for the many important skills and knowledge I’ve gained throughout the course for this semester. I’ve realized that there are many people who run into several barriers in life that can make it difficult to do all the things they need to. I’ve learned that people who have it a little easier have a duty to help those who don’t. It’s important to bring an awareness to our community because I believe people would help if they could. They just don’t know. OT practitioners have a role in educating and advocating to make people aware.