Volunteer spotlight: Kylie Ready on her experience at EversCare Clinic

Published on Thursday, September 26, 2024

Kylie Ready, a nursing student from UMMC School of Nursing, found her calling while volunteering at the EversCare Clinic through the Myrlie Evers-Williams Institute (MEWI). Kylie was first introduced to the clinic during a food distribution event for community service, where she helped connect families with essential resources. This experience, she says, was the start of something much bigger.

“I really love what they do to take care of the community,” Kylie explains. “As a nursing student, we sometimes forget about people’s living situations. Some people are barely living paycheck to paycheck. EversCare Clinic helps by giving patients access to resources like food, financial assistance, or help with lowering their utility bills.”

For Kylie, volunteering at the clinic brought her "why" into focus—the reason she’s pursuing nursing in the first place. "Helping people has always been my why. After every test, I tell myself that I’m here to take care of my community, and no grade will change that."

Beyond learning the importance of community support, Kylie also gained valuable professional skills. “Volunteering helped me develop therapeutic communication skills. I learned how to ask patients the right questions in a way that makes them feel comfortable. The clinic gave me real-world experience I’ll use throughout my nursing career.”

Kylie encourages her classmates to volunteer at the EversCare Clinic, emphasizing its importance as a safe, judgment-free space. “This place will make students aware that not everyone can afford the things most of us take for granted. The EversCare Clinic holds a special place in my heart, and I hope more people talk about it and the amazing work they do.”

For more information about the Evers Care Clinic and volunteer opportunities, contact MEWI at 601-815-5340.