We Grow Heroes Here

Guest Blogger and Harbor Care’s Student Leader Intern Enya Gu Discusses the Difference One Person Can Make

Me, exploring the waterfall at Castle in the Clouds.

“When I grow up, I want to be a hero.” Those were the kind of thoughts that I used to have as a child. It was the dream of pretty much every kid running around the neighborhood back then, where we’d create castles and secret bases in the woods and attack the tall, scary monsters. Of course, eventually those castles and bases became empty, and we carried on with our lives. 

I don’t think anyone has ever forgotten that dream, though. The word “hero” has just come to mean something different. It’s no longer about being the savior of the world, or defeating some mythical creature. Heroes are simply people that help save others—people that strive to make the world a little better each day. An everyday hero, if you will. 

When I found myself in high school, I tried my best to be that kind of person. I volunteered, participated in political activism, and taught others about news in the United States and worldwide. Making a difference is incredibly rewarding work, and I found myself having fun no matter what I was doing. 

I came across the Bank of America Student Leaders Program in the winter of my junior year, while looking for something meaningful to do over the summer. The program sounded amazing from just the description: Bank of America would sponsor an 8-week internship at a local nonprofit organization for its Student Leaders. There was also a week-long summit in Washington, D.C. (which was hosted virtually this year) where Student Leaders from around the country would congregate and hear from national officials, leaders, and Congressmen. I was incredibly intrigued by the program, but above all, I wanted to help an organization that was assisting my community. Thus, I decided to apply. 

In April, I was notified of my selection as one of two Student Leaders representing the Manchester, New Hampshire market (the only market in New Hampshire). I was assigned to work at Harbor Care, a nonprofit headquartered in Nashua (where I live). I had never heard of the organization before, so I was a bit surprised. However, little did I know that this organization was not only a well-established nonprofit with decades of experience, it also had tons of programs that helped countless lives. 

It was difficult even describing the magnitude of Harbor Care’s programs to my parents because of the massive number of services that they provide. There were programs focused on veteran homelessness, drug abuse, and medical care; it seemed that if you had a problem, Harbor Care could help. I was floored by each and every person I met at the organization; everyone cared deeply about their program and clients. Their programs continue to change and save lives throughout the state. It is an organization that truly deserves the title of “hero.” 

The Bank of America Student Leaders Program opened my eyes to the great work that is being done throughout the community, and I am ever so grateful to be able to contribute. The work of a hero is never over. Progress must be fought for constantly. Local organizations such as Harbor Care display true heroism as they work to transform the lives of others, and it inspires me to do my best each day.