"I'm a member of the National Civilian Community Corps, a federally funded AmeriCorps program. N-triple-C members are 18-24 years old and spend 10 months serving our nation while developing leadership skills. We serve on teams to help communities in the 5 main areas of urban/rural development, infrastructure, environmental stewardship, education, and disaster relief. For our service we are provided food, housing, a living stipend, and an education award. To find out more visit www.americorps.gov."
What that maybe doesn't tell you is that NCCC means that you'll be on a team of 8-12 people with whom you'll spend 10 months getting to know. It only takes a few days of driving, working, exercising, sleeping, and eating together to start that bond. These people will be your greatest support during the rigors of each project.
In 10 months we will complete 4 separate project rounds. Each project can vary greatly. Some projects will mean spending your time tutoring and playing with children at a Boys and Girls club. Others will have you camping in the back woods for 9 days at a time wielding chainsaws and axes to create and maintain trails with the Park Service. You could be in the Gulf working with Habitat for Humanity, rebuilding homes for those displaced by natural disasters. A few teams will even become certified tax handlers and help community members file their returns. In 10 months alone, you can experience a vast array of adventures and challenges.
Through this dedication of service you have the opportunity to meet, interact with, and impact so many different lives. From project sponsors to community members in need, every one has experience and wisdom to share. You can take these 10 months to give fully of your self, time, talents, and attention to a worthy cause. Learn about others, and learn about yourself.
At our induction, after a month of training, we all took a pledge.
The AmeriCorps Pledge:
"I will get things done for America-
to make our people safer,
smarter, and healthier.
I will bring Americans together
to strengthen our communities.
Faced with apathy,
I will take action.
Faced with conflict,
I will seek common ground.
Faced with adversity,
I will persevere.
I will carry this commitment
with me this year and beyond.
I am an AmeriCorps member,
and I will get things done.
