One of the important aspects of JVC is living in the community in which you serve. All year I walked less than a mile from my home to work. I was able to limit my car usage with my human-powered transportation and lived within a few miles of where the majority of our patients lived. My roommates and I did participated in some "escapism" every now and again in the nicer neighborhoods of Portland either taking a stroll down NW 23rd street or simply admiring the adorable houses and porches in the South East neighborhoods. But solidarity - and figuring out what that really meant - was important.
Now I find myself living in the North end of the University District - butting right up against Ravenna and Greenlake - a pretty "Yuppie" area as my roommate Nick, a Former Jesuit Volunteer like myself, likes to point out. I've always wanted to live in this area. I love that Greenlake is less than a mile away - perfect for an after work run. I'm three blocks from my favorite vegetarian restaurant. Going for a walk around the neighborhood there are restaurants representing over 10 different ethnic groups. I brag about the area's 96% walkability score - the library, groceries, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping are all within walking distance.
But then I take my 20 minute drive on I-5 to South Park (A South Seattle neighborhood between the industrial area and boeing field) and feel guilty...
After two days of orientation I've learned how much Sea Mar community health clinics have poured into this neighborhood. It is incredibly diverse - way more so than North Seattle. It reminds me a lot of Gresham. Its where a lot of the minorities have been pushed out to because of the gentrification of other Seattle neighborhoods. But there is so much joy and community organizing going on. I feel like there is a real desire for change so many efforts to engage the community in celebrations like Fiestas Patrias, helping the local organic farm that supports the local food bank, and gatherings to save the South Park Bridge. Because the need is so visible, the opportunity for change seems more tangible.
I wanted to be happy and comfortable in my home and enjoy being close to friends. Outside of my housemates, living in Gresham was not necessarily where I wanted to spend my time. But now I wish I could really be a part of the community I'm going to serve. North Seattle is far away - physically and in philosophy/perspective.
I hope I can bring a little bit of South Park home with me this year.
