My name is Katelyn Khov, and I had the pleasure of spending the summer as a field canvasser for Clean Water Action, working to place safeguards on communities and the environment from AI Data Centers and ban toxic PFAS in Pennsylvania.
I’m currently attending Loyola University Maryland, where I study Political Science and Communication and Media. I’m most passionate about ensuring that both the health of the public and the environment is prioritized on the political agenda.
While looking for a summer internship, Clean Water Action immediatly caught my attention. Working for this organization would allow me to gain further insight and hands-on experience on organizing outside of what I’ve been taught in the classroom, while also aligning my passions with the organization's goals.
Through canvassing for Clean Water Action, I was able to meet hundreds of constituents and supporters across Pennsylvania. Interning for this organization helped me realize the importance of grassroots organizing. By interacting with constituents every day, I was able to amplify their voices on environmental and health issues to their local politicians.
My favorite part of this experience was being able to attend Lobby Day at the PA State Capitol. Talking to and hearing from various Representatives and Senators illuminated the power of grassroots organizing. On a day-to-day basis, I was able to interact with many more constituents than politicians typically do. Being a part of Clean Water Action and attending Lobby Day emphasized how important grassroots organizing is—not only in spreading awareness of various issues and gathering community support, but also in creating meaningful change.
Working as a field canvasser for Clean Water Action has changed the way I think about taking action to make a difference, and for the better. As I close out my internship, I will take with me the importance of taking political action and the knowledge that it is completely possible to make a difference when we put in the work together as a community.
