Meet some of Commonwealth Land Trust’s volunteers and interns, hailing from colleges such as Northeastern, UMass Boston, Simmons, and Wheelock, who decided to take an active role in ending homelessness in Massachusetts. Continue reading to learn more about these dedicated students and professionals.
HOLDEN SPARACINO
Raised in California, Holden moved to Boston to attend Northeastern University. He is currently in his last year, pursuing a BA in sociology and a minor in environmental studies. As a development and communications intern at CLT, Holden is conducting grant research and drafting funding proposals. He also writes articles for CLT’s newsletter and website, and helps to generate social media content. Holden enjoys biking and running (even in the winter), exploring Boston, and cooking. Holden says of his time at CLT: “It’s been great seeing how CLT has a direct impact on individuals and communities.”
JEANNE COOKE
Jeanne was born and raised in Massachusetts. She is a senior at Emmanuel College, majoring in sociology with a focus in human services and a minor in art. At CLT, Jeanne helps to run a recovery group for people living with addiction or in recovery. In addition, Jeanne founded a weekly art group that allows residents to express themselves in a variety of creative ways. Jeanne says of her time at CLT: “Maya Angelou says, ‘There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.’ I like to be able to allow residents to share their unique personal histories and help them to cultivate their own stories.”
ANTONIA BARON
Antonia was raised in Framingham and is pursuing a BS in public health with a concentration in biology at Simmons College. As a supportive housing intern at CLT, Antonia assists prospective residents through the application process and supports current residents in their efforts to remain housed. Antonia says of her internship at CLT: “Ever since I was young I wanted to make an impact on the lives of others and improve society as a whole. I feel like I am in a position to do that by helping those who come to Commonwealth Land Trust.” In her free time, Antonia loves to sing and express herself through music.
KRISTINA PAVONE
Kristina Pavone is a Boston native and senior at Wheelock College where she is pursuing a BA in social work. She is working as a medical case management intern at CLT’s Massachusetts Avenue properties. Kristina provides informal counseling, assists residents in accessing community resources, and helps to coordinate groups and activities. When she finds free time between being a full-time student, working, and interning, she loves spending time with her friends and family.
ASHLEIGH RYANS
Ashleigh is a senior at Wheelock College pursuing a BA in social work. Ashleigh is working as a medical case management intern at Bowdoin Manor, CLT’s largest supportive housing program in Beacon Hill. Ashleigh describes the sense of team work at Bowdoin Manor, saying: “All of us work really well together. I don’t think I’ve ever learned so much in such a short period time. I love these people!” During her free time, Ashleigh enjoys writing poetry, singing, and playing the ukulele.
ERIC PHOUTHAVONG
A resident of Massachusetts, Eric is working as a case management intern at CLT’s Mass Ave properties. He is a senior at UMass Boston studying sociology and criminal justice. Aside from social services, Eric has a wide array of interests ranging from music and concerts to traveling and reading. At CLT, Eric assists with various tasks, including providing informal counseling, organizing resident activities, assisting clients in completing required documentation, and providing general support. Eric describes his time at CLT saying: “I’m learning a lot from my supervisor, Shara Lowe, as well as from the rest of the CLT team. I find it rewarding whenever I help someone even if it’s only in a small way. Working at CLT has made me consider a career in human services.”
JON KAUFMAN
A resident of Massachusetts, Jon Kaufman graduated from UMass Amherst in 2011 with a BS in computer science. After helping develop CLT’s website, Jon continued to volunteer at CLT supporting and improving the site. “Technology changes quickly,” Jon explains. “I’m here to help the website adapt to the latest and greatest!” Jon’s technology interests include modern web technologies, computer graphics, and robotics. When he is not hanging out on the computer, he enjoys skateboarding, running, and biking. As for his time working with CLT, Jon says: “It has been refreshing to see the passion everyone at Commonwealth Land Trust brings to the table. I have really enjoyed contributing!”