“I’ve been thinking more about how to engage with and interact in a community/neighborhood. I’m learning how to be an active part in a community without imposing my own ideals into the community.” – Rachel Gingrich
Rachel Gingrich is a native of Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, and earned her Music Therapy degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Since graduating in 2014, Rachel has kept busy honing her music therapy skills at Sunnyside Long Term Care, where she creates programs for residents. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Rachel is passionate about social justice. She has worked as an inclusions facilitator at a Hidden Acres Camp and has training in trauma awareness. Rachel loves to knit, garden, and build strong communities. She is serving at the YWCA.
Cece Franchi: Tell me something you are learning about yourself through PULSE.
Rachel Gingrich: I’m learning how much I identify as Canadian, but I’m also learning about the American side of myself and recognizing that as part of my identity.
Cece: What is the best part of the PULSE experience?
Rachel: Definitely, my house; and the community and friendships developed with them. We get along really well. It’s great to always have people around. There is always someone willing to go to an event with you.
Cece: Describe a typical day at your nonprofit partnership.
Rachel: I’ll write four to five social media posts promoting events or sharing articles related to equality and diversity. I’ll work on communications projects like designing annual report, re-working forms, re-imagining membership at the organization, designing flyers, taking pictures of events and posting pictures on media sites. Each day is different.
Cece: How has PULSE inspired you to live/think/act differently?
Rachel: I’m beginning to see myself in a broad way, not just as an extrovert and a people person, but as someone who has office skills too. I’ve been thinking more about how to engage with and interact in a community/neighborhood. I’m learning how to be an active part in a community without imposing my own ideals into the community.
Cece: What do you like about Pittsburgh?
Rachel: I love the green space and the city feel. It is great to have nature and accessibility of living in the city. Diversity is celebrated. The architecture is also great.
Story by PULSE Participant Cece Franchi.
Read more Participant Stories from Fellows about their experience in PULSE. If you would like to learn more about the PULSE program, please visit our Serve with Us page.
Also, check out other Stories of Transformation: