What led me to choose my internship position at the Des Moines Music Coalition?
As part of being a member of the Engaged Citizen Corps program, we have the opportunity to complete a service internship at a local charity organization which we integrate into our classwork. Upon browsing the list of community partner service internship opportunities, there were affordable housing initiatives, a food pantry, and a public transportation organization, but there was a certain organization that really caught my eye: the Des Moines Music Coalition. They would be focusing on raising awareness and fighting the city ordinance that prohibits citizens under the age of 21 to be in music venues serving alcohol past 9pm.
I believe that the most effective service is about passion and fighting for social rights which are close to your heart. I truly believe in the power that live music has to transcend social norms and boundaries, as well as to create a community of people gathered in one place to admire the talents of an artist or group. The feeling that comes with being part of a live crowd is so vibrant and magical, it should not be restricted to the underage population because of a city ordinance. The major project for the Des Moines Music Coalition revolved around advocating for those under the age of 21 through marketing and communications skills. It was perfect to combine my personal passion for live music and practically apply and develop my marketing skills. If I was not passionate for the work my organization was doing, it would be much harder to be intrinsically motivated to apply my very best efforts. Because you know what they say, “you’ll never work a day in your life if you love what you’re doing.”
written by Kyli Selburg, ECC student working with the Des Moines Music Coalition
