This spring, we applied to welcome interns from the UF Applied Learning Program for the Summer term. The ALP is often undergraduates’ first internship experience, and it offers them the opportunity to learn about a community organization or skills related to their fields of study. We have interns working on two different projects: “Communication for Inclusion and Accessibility,” and “Rainbow Kids in Red America.”  The first is focused on our church communications — particularly our website and social media — with an aim of increasing engagement in our congregation and beyond, making sure information about our programs is as available and accessible as possible; Mya is joining us for this project. The second is more of a traditional research project. When the team was working on the BCYF grant earlier this year, and in the midst of the legislative session, I (Bromleigh) started thinking in particular about the ways in which politically and theologically conservative policies and practices serve as barriers to the thriving of children. I spoke with an editor I’ve worked with before and put together a book proposal. The three interns for this project – Niyah, Isabella, and Rey — are researching public policy and social history, pedagogy and political science as they learn about writing for social change. They are also hoping to do some interviews with members of our community (rendered anonymous for the book!) who either have experience with navigating barriers to access or inclusion for the kids in their care, or subject area experts. If that’s you, please contact me at bromleighm@ucgainesville.org. We’re so grateful to have these students with us as we continue to build our connections with our university neighbors!