I’m Casley Matthews, and I’m excited to be the new congregational engagement intern! I’m a Rice University sophomore, originally from Chicago, majoring in Health Sciences and Social Policy Analysis. I have a passion for reducing health disparities and managing social determinants of health and I am looking forward to my time at EHF.

I have been interested in public health since my junior year of high school, when I spent the summer working at an organization that managed 13 clinics scattered across Illinois. It was there that I first understood the complexities of providing quality care to a mostly uninsured population. For many Americans, there is no simple way to get access to regular and routine health care. Since then, I have worked at other clinics and organizations focused on providing health care to underserved groups.

I first heard about the Congregational Engagement Intern role through the Baker Institute at Rice. I was blown away by EHF’s focus on “improving health, not just healthcare” and their work to create overall healthier communities from within. I was also excited about EHF’s focus on Episcopal congregations. Coming from a faith background, I understand the importance of religion and spirituality in making decisions, especially medical decisions, and how much of an impact faith leaders can have on implementing changes in their own communities. While learning more about the Episcopal church, I was struck by their focus on scripture, tradition, and reason, as well as their inclusive message. I will make sure to keep these values in mind while working with congregations.

The Congregational Engagement team focuses on four focus areas: poverty, mental health, civic engagement and community organizing, and racial justice. Because of my interest in a broad view of health that addresses all of the unique needs of communities, this specific department was incredibly compelling. Working with this congregational engagement will also provide me with the opportunity to learn more about community organizing and engagement.

I’m excited to be at a foundation that actively addresses healthcare and community needs, whether that be through advocating for Medicaid expansion or creating workshops to help congregations better serve their communities and neighbors. I hope to make the most of my internship by attending as many events as possible, getting to know the entire EHF staff and their partners, and actively assessing what I can be doing in my work to improve the well-being of the congregations I will be serving. I am thankful and excited for this incredible opportunity and can’t wait to get started.