My name is Kathryn Wallace and I served on the Navajo reservation in Arizona from 2010-2011. I worked as a Pediatric Physical Therapist (PT) at St. Michaels Association for Special Education school. Currently, I proudly work as a PT for Easterseals of Southeastern Pennsylvania in Levittown, PA. I work with children with disabilities from ages 2 months old to 5 years old in their home or school environment.

My experience on the reservation was life-changing. The friendships I made with my fellow Mercy Volunteers and the Navajo continue to be priceless. I talk about my time in Arizona on a daily basis. As I share my story, I am reminded just how blessed I am for my life here in New Jersey. My experience in Arizona gives me a daily reminder that there are so many people that still live in poverty and need our help.

Mercy Volunteer Corps has given me such amazing opportunities to serve after college. It began with my volunteer year and it hasn’t stopped there. MVC has inspired me to get out of my comfort zone! I participate in MVC’s annual service day in the Philadelphia area which is a fantastic way to connect with alumni. I continue to go out to the reservation to work at the school. It is difficult to hire professionals there, so I go out once a year for a week to work and reconnect. I currently volunteer at a homeless shelter in Camden, NJ once a month and have served there for many years. Previously, I served as an organizer for a young adult ministry at a local Catholic church for two years where I put together retreats for youth and young adults. I have made lasting friendships with wonderful people in each of these volunteer experiences.

Kathryn Wallace: St. Michaels, Arizona (Photo: Kathryn right with friend Tina on the Navajo Reservation)