At Westside Future Fund (WFF), a group of dedicated interns is making a lasting impact, supporting volunteer initiatives that uplift the community. From neighborhood cleanups to assisting with large-scale volunteer events, these young leaders are at the heart of the organization’s efforts to transform the lives and historic Westside into a community Dr. King would be proud to call home.

These interns, aged 11 to 21, are employed through generous funding from Georgia Natural Gas. The program focuses on keeping young people under 25 engaged, employed, and learning valuable job skills. The group collaborates directly with Westside Future Fund and Integrity Home Solutions, one of WFF’s key community partners, where they gain hands-on experience while making a tangible difference.

“We’re almost here every day, helping to clean up and set up events for the community,” said Anthony, a long-time intern who recently graduated high school.

Their work encompasses a range of activities, including beautifying neighborhoods, preparing and distributing resources for families in need, and ensuring community events run smoothly. From coordinating food distributions during Thanksgiving to supporting community cleanups, their contributions are pivotal to Westside Future Fund’s mission of building stronger bonds among neighbors and fostering sustainable, resident-centered revitalization in the historic Westside.

“I’ve been involved with Westside Future Fund since I was 10 or 11, doing everything from community cleanups to Thanksgiving events. It’s taught me how important it is to give back and be part of something bigger than yourself,” said Jonathan, another long-time intern.

For him and his fellow interns, the work is about creating connections and ensuring that everyone in the Westside community feels supported and empowered.

Ryan, who has also been involved with Westside Future Fund since a young age, reflected on the organization’s impact.

“[Westside Future Fund] gives back to the Westside community,” she said. “They’re helping people stay in the area who might not otherwise afford to. It’s important to me because I can help people who aren’t as lucky as I am. If I have the ability to do it, I think I should.”

The internship program provides these young individuals with valuable opportunities to grow while making a difference. Acting as both leaders and hardworking contributors, their support is crucial to ensuring every volunteer event is a success. Their teamwork and collaboration with other volunteers showcase their ability to inspire and motivate while rolling up their sleeves to get the job done.

Their efforts touch nearly every WFF Volunteer Corps activation, from supporting the annual Ride for the Westside to contributing to community wellness projects. This broad scope of work enables them to develop leadership skills and a profound appreciation for the importance of service.

By equipping these interns with the tools and experiences to succeed, Westside Future Fund and Integrity Home Solutions are preparing the next generation to carry forward the mission of community transformation. Their dedication demonstrates the power of youth leadership in driving positive change and creating a stronger, more connected Westside.

Through their tireless efforts, these interns embody the spirit of Westside Future Fund: to uplift, support and inspire. Their commitment to the community serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder that with dedicated hearts and hands, a brighter future is always within reach.