As I began my orientation at Netcare, something that the staff continually said was “I did not know about Netcare before I joined this company” or “I had heard of it, but never really knew what exactly they did”. Prior to applying for this Summer Fellowship, I, too, had only heard briefly of Netcare Access. Though unknown to many, Netcare Access works behind the scenes to make a TREMENDOUS difference in the greater-Columbus community. I was amazed by all the different components that make up the comprehensive mental health care that Netcare provides to the Central Ohio and surrounding community. Some of these sectors include immediate crisis support, residential/long-term aid, and forensic services. However, for me, the most interesting service which I learned about during orientation was the Mobile Response Unit. This unit goes out with the Columbus Police Department and Franklin County Sheriff’s Department to respond to mental-health and substance-abuse related calls. These well-trained clinicians help to provide immediate care to those in need and prevent unnecessary incarcerations. It gave me hope to see that Netcare was leading the way to eroding the stigma surrounding mental health and helping to place those in crisis in a place truly suited to help them recover. 

During my first week, I met one of the clinicians who works on the mobile response unit. He had evidently responded to some harrowing situations, and his passion and drive for his profession inspired me. He returned to Netcare many years after leaving for other professional opportunities because he wanted to be on the frontline making a difference. It was clear that he made his community better daily and loved what he did. I hope to one day be able to say the same of my profession. 

In addition to orientation-related tasks, I worked this week to create a solicitation list with information about companies that could possibly donate to components of Netcare that are not under Medicaid and ADAMH funding. As I look towards next week, I am excited to help prepare for the upcoming Golf Fundraiser.

Overall, I leave my first week with immense optimism. I am hopeful about the difference, even if it is small, that I can help Netcare make in the Columbus community. More importantly, though, I feel a newfound sense of hope in society after comprehensively understanding the ways that Netcare works daily to better the lives of Ohioans.  After just one week of working at this non-profit, if I could describe Netcare Access as one thing, it would be a hidden gem, a diamond in the rough. This company is unknown to many, but is a multifaceted, precious part of our community. I am ecstatic for this opportunity to continue to help Netcare sparkle and shine in the place I call home.