For many young professionals, an internship is a stepping stone toward future career goals. For Taylor, her internship at Hands of The Carpenter was more than just a learning experience—it was a life-changing opportunity. From gaining firsthand insight into how a nonprofit operates to witnessing the powerful impact Hands has on single mothers, Taylor’s time with the organization deepened her passion for helping others. Along the way, she found an inspiring community, valuable career direction, and even a safer vehicle, thanks to Hands’ commitment to its mission. In this Q&A, Taylor shares her experiences, lessons learned, and hopes for the future.
What did you enjoy most about your internship with Hands?
What I enjoyed most about my internship with Hands was the community they have and learning about how the company works. Everyone I worked with in the office and in the garage treated me very kindly and welcomed me with open arms. This was the first time I ever worked for a non-profit, and I loved learning about their purpose and the differences they made in each of these women’s lives!
Where would you like your career to go after this internship?
I would like my career to go in the direction of an administrative assistant position or front desk work in the automotive industry.
What is the best car advice you’ve received?
The best car advice I received would be to not wait until the last minute when something goes wrong with your vehicle.
Can you give me some background on how you were placed in the 2011 Mazda Cx9?
I was placed in a 2011 Mazda CX-9 after my ’97 Dodge Ram 1500 was evaluated by Hands’ automotive team. The team informed me that my truck was unsafe to drive due to issues like a worn-out suspension, half a muffler, and tire wear. During my lunch break, they had me test drive the Mazda. A few hours later, they surprised me by asking if I would be willing to trade in my truck for the Mazda. I was shocked and incredibly grateful for this opportunity.
What are some of the biggest challenges facing single moms today, other than transportation?
Some of the biggest challenges facing single moms today are emotional and financial challenges. Not all get help from the other parent. When you have no other support, it makes it hard to take care of yourself because your child comes first.
