Coral Crissey (MPA ’25) spent their summer in Mount Desert Island, Maine working for the Common Good Soup Kitchen as the Grant Writing and Communications intern.
Experiential Learning (EL): Describe the organization you worked for:
Coral Crissey (CC): Common Good Kitchen is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing nourishing meals and promoting social good through community outreach programs on Mount Desert Island, Maine. The organization operates on a donation-based model, ensuring that everyone in the community is welcomed and cared for.
EL: Describe your project and what you did in your internship/practicum:
CC: As the Grant Writing and Communications Intern, I was responsible for designing and producing a range of materials, including surveys, posters, and a small magazine, all with a homemade, inviting aesthetic. My role also involved researching and drafting grant proposals, as well as collaborating with the Executive Director on program evaluation and communication strategies. Additionally, I conducted in-depth interviews with guests to gather data for improving our services.
EL: What was the challenge/issue at the heart of what you were working on?
CC: The main challenge was effectively communicating the mission of Common Good Kitchen while creating materials that resonated with a diverse audience. Additionally, the organization needed to secure consistent funding to continue providing services to the community, requiring a focused effort in grant writing.
EL: What was your biggest insight?
CC: My biggest insight was realizing the profound impact that thoughtful design and clear communication can have on community engagement and support for nonprofit initiatives.
EL: What was most eye-opening or surprising?
CC: What most surprised me was how much the community valued the homemade, do-it-yourself aesthetic in the materials, which helped to build a stronger connection between the organization and its audience.
EL: What was your personal highlight of this experience?
CC: One of the personal highlights for me was seeing the positive reception of the small magazine I created, which helped raise awareness about Common Good Kitchen’s mission and services.
EL: How did you draw upon your education and experiences at MIIS?
CC: I drew upon what I’ve learned at the Middlebury Institute by applying the principles of nonprofit management and community engagement, particularly those I studied in my course with Kent Glenzer. This experience allowed me to translate theoretical knowledge into practical, impactful work.
EL: How were you able to contribute to this organization’s work?
CC: I contributed by creating materials that enhanced the organization’s outreach and by assisting in securing funding through grant writing. My work also supported the evaluation and improvement of current programs.
EL: What skills did you develop? How will this experience help you professionally?
CC: I developed skills in grant writing, communication design, and program evaluation. These experiences will help me professionally by equipping me with the tools necessary to manage and support nonprofit organizations effectively.
EL: What tips do you have for other students?
CC: My tip for other students is to take the time to understand the community you are serving and to design your materials in a way that reflects their values and needs. This approach can significantly enhance the impact of your work.
EL: How could other students connect to organizations or projects at this organization or in this location?
CC: Students can connect with Common Good Kitchen by reaching out directly to volunteer or intern, especially if they have skills in communication, design, or grant writing. The organization is always looking for passionate individuals to contribute to their mission.
EL: Anything else to add:
CC: This experience related to conflict transformation by emphasizing preventative community care. By ensuring that everyone in the community is nourished and cared for, Common Good Kitchen helps to create a safer and more welcoming environment, which can prevent conflicts and promote social harmony.