| AmeriCorps NCCC pose for a picture with Santa Claus. |
The second current of AmeriCorps *National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) members was in Green River from their home base in Sacramento, Calif. from Nov. 29 until Dec. 16. They continued the work of their predecessors by working in the Green River Community Center as literacy tutors in the Reading Round-Up Program, leading activities in recreation and affording opportunities in the fine arts for the youth in Green River Community.
The 12 corps member team also assisted with drama and music classes at the high school, tutoring in reading and science at the elementary school and working as mentors and tutors at the Green River Community Center after school program. In addition to their work at Community Center and Green River schools, the NCCC team worked on several beautification projects such as installing a split rail fence at the Elgin Park and other community maintenance and environmental work.
The Green River Community Center was created in 2000 by a group of dedicated volunteers who had a vision to build a stronger and more united community. With the help of federal, state and private grants, the GRCC is able to provide community center is able to provide community education, nutrition programs, mental health support, recreation and volunteer coordination to all Green River residents.
| Alex Maynard helps students with the computers. |
Even though their time in Green River was brief, as NCCC member Lori Schiachitano of Metuchen, N.J. explained, “We’re very excited about our opportunity to serve in the Green River community. We’re looking forward to making a big difference in a small community.”
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. The Western Region campus is one of five campuses in the United States; the others are located in Perry Point, Md.; Charleston, S.C.; Washington, D.C.; and Denver, Colo.�������
The 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. AmeriCorps is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service. For information about applying to an AmeriCorps program, call 1-800-942-2677 (1-800-94-ACORP) or visit the website at www.americorps.org.