| AmeriCorps volunteers spend their time in Green River working with childrens reading programs and doing outdoor work where needed. |
On March 30, a grey-clad group from AmeriCorps*National Civilian Community Corps(NCCC) became a part of the Green River Community Center support system by manning the Center’s after school program and participating in various community improvement activities. A dozen corps members were the newest additions to Green River as they support the Green River Community Center’s Reading Counts Summer School program, organizing structured recreation, fine arts, and literacy activities. AmeriCorps*NCCC members will also have a hand in implementing community clean-up, installing a walking trail, and improving City Parks.
The AmeriCorps team, dubbed Green Ohana (which means family), is looking forward to spending time in Green River and with the community members. “We’re really excited to become an integral part of this community and have the opportunity to have such an impact,” stated corps member Katie Mandel. The team has participated in two hurricane relief projects and a project with Habitat for Humanity, and welcomes the change of atmosphere and a chance to work with the youth of Green River.
AmeriCorps*NCCC and Green River Community Center share many goals and visions, and will certainly be a successful team. The Green River Community Center states that it is “dedicated to helping all community members reach their potential by finding, developing, and implementing programs to improve the quality of life for all citizens of Green River, Utah.” The Green River Community Center was created five years ago by a small group of volunteers. Their vision was to create a stronger and more united community in Green River. The Community Center is now able to provide mental health support, nutrition programs, community education, volunteer coordination, recreation, and many other community enhancing activities. The AmeriCorps members only hope that they can become a part of such a wonderful program and create a positive impact.
AmeriCorps*NCCC is part of AmeriCorps, a network of national service programs created to improve the environment, enhance education, increase public safety, and assist with disaster relief and other unmet human needs. The Western Region campus, located in Sacramento, Calif. serves Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and the territories of Guam and Samoa. AmeriCorps members must complete at least 1,700 hours of service during the 10-month program. In exchange for their service, they receive $4,725 to help pay for college or to pay school loans.