Name: Henderson Heussner
Age: 19
School: Estero High School (Graduated),
I will be attending Yale University in the fall
Team: School Age Programs
Why did you want to intern at Grace Place?
I wanted to gain valuable work experience in an environment that is geared towards achieving a goal I find necessary and gratifying.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
My day usually begins with setting up the volunteer sign in station downstairs. I will then assist with projects around the office by making copies, completing spreadsheets, making phone calls, etc. Also, assisting at the AoL high school summer program at GGHS.
What’s your favorite part of interning at Grace Place?
Being surrounded by people that are all dedicated to working towards a common goal.
What goes on in your life outside of Grace Place?
I try to do as much reading as possible, and I enjoy any available form of exercise. I will spend a lot of time working out, playing basketball, or running. I also enjoy spending time with my family.
What is your favorite place to hang in Naples?
Vanderbilt Beach is a favorite spot of mine.
Where do you want to be in 15 years?
I would like to be doing fulfilling and worthwhile work that improves the lives of others.
Fun Fact: I’ve grown up in a military family, so Florida is the 9th state in which I’ve lived.
Name: Marlen Hernandez
Age: 17
School: Golden Gate High School
Team: Bright Beginnings Program
Why did you want to intern at Grace Place?
I decided to intern at Grace Place because I had heard from friends that it was a fun place to work at, and with great people.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
A typical day in the office consists of sorting, filling spreadsheets, and watching people run around.
What’s your favorite part of interning at Grace Place?
My favorite part of interning at Grace Place is the amount of help people give one another in order to successfully complete tasks. There’s no such thing as too many questions.
What goes on in your life outside of Grace Place?
Outside of Grace Place, I mostly spend time with friends or family. Whether it’s going to the park or out to watch a movie, I am rarely alone.
What is your favorite place to hang in Naples?
One of my favorite places to go is Vineyards Community Park. Whether it be to run, finish some homework, kick around a soccer ball, or simply admire the view, I can always find something to do.
Where do you want to be in 15 years?
In 15 years I hope to have a steady nursing job and happy family, living on Florida’s east coast, and traveling whenever possible.
Fun Fact : I am starting my senior year of high school with a weighted 5.02 GPA.
Name: Logan Smith
Age: 17
School: Lely High School
Team: Marketing and Development
Why did you want to intern at Grace Place?
Grace Place looked like a great organization and my interests aligned with the position offered.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
I do general office work like building the ongoing press list until someone gives me a new project to work on. Most days I spend a decent amount of time away from the computer working on other projects. There’s always something to do.
What’s your favorite part of interning at Grace Place?
The times I see the impact of Grace Place by spending time in the classrooms and the food pantry are really nice. It makes me feel like I’m contributing in a meaningful way to a meaningful cause.
What goes on in your life outside of Grace Place?
Nothing exciting. Any activity non-hobby related is school related.
What is your favorite place to hang in Naples?
I don’t hang out much in Naples (I live on Marco Island). On Marco, I would say…Mackle Park.
Where do you want to be in 15 years?
Post-college with a stable life and income.
Fun Fact: I am interested in computers and technology and plan to follow a career based on that, especially in the area of game design.