Methodist Children’s Home (MCH) creates opportunities for
youth to work as interns in different departments on the Waco campus. The
internships help youth learn job skills and life skills and builds
relationships with MCH staff.
Ben lives in the Prothro home and has been interning for
several months alongside Candyce Haddock, home service specialist for the
Prothro home. Home service specialists are responsible for cooking and grocery
shopping for the home which allows them to also build relationships with youth
and attend to their special dietary needs and requests. Haddock said she
appreciates her role in the house and having the opportunity to work with Ben.
“I enjoy the boys in the home and getting feedback on the
meals we serve,” said Haddock. “Ben is a quick learner and very helpful. He has
a great imagination and I love to hear his stories about his day at school. Ben
has even planned a few of our evening meals.”
Ben is responsible for getting snacks ready for the rest of
the boys after school. He helps with food preparation for the evening dinner
and gives input on the weekly meal planning.
“I have learned so much about food and how it is prepared,”
said Ben. “I used to have food issues which kept me from eating and trying new
things. Working in the kitchen has helped me feel more comfortable with what I
am eating and now enjoying it.”
According to Nick Molnar, unit manager for the Prothro home,
“Ben was a picky eater. Since working with Candyce, he takes pride in his work
in the kitchen and enjoys the extra spending money. Also, because he is eating
more consistently, his mood has increased, he has more energy and his body is
just healthier in general.”
Ben has also learned a new life skill that will become
valuable to him in his everyday life that will help him now and in the future.
“I like knowing I can go on a home visit and cook for my
siblings,” he said. “My very favorite meal now is steak and potatoes.”
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