Alexandria House is a transitional shelter in Los Angeles that serves single women and women with children who are in the process of moving from emergency shelters to permanent housing. Many Marlborough students volunteered for the organization over the summer before the 2016-2017 school year.

Allegra ’17, Mia ’18 and Alex ’19 each approached Community Outreach Program Head Pamela Wright at the end of the 2015-2016 school year, as they were looking for a way to volunteer over the summer.

“I think [Ms. Wright] suggested Alexandria House because I am very interested in women’s issues, and I love kids,” Mia said.

Alex had already done some volunteer work with Alexandria House through Marlborough and wanted to continue, and Mia was interested in helping women in the Los Angeles community. Both Mia and Alex worked with the children of women in the transitional housing.

“I really loved working with the kids, and it was good because [the children] had a place to go while their parents were at work,” Mia said.

Allegra, on the other hand, came to Wright looking for a way to combine her love of photography and her desire to help others.

“[The administration at Alexandria House] call[s] me when they are having an event and I take a bunch of pictures for them,” Allegra said.

All three girls said they’d recommend volunteering at Alexandria House, and Allegra continues to volunteer with the organization.

“I would definitely recommend [Alexandria House] to anyone. I loved working with the kids!” Alex said.