Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Corps Member Spotlight: Patricia Llamas

Patricia Llamas, from Perris, Calif., is a member of Maple 1 in NCCC’s Class 19. She arrived in Vinton on February 5, 2013, to start her 10-month service term on a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Maple 1 is made up of 10 people from across the country, and they are serving together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region throughout their term.

“I have chosen to serve in NCCC because I feel that it is my civic responsibility to participate in service that addresses civil as well as environmental needs and issues,” Patricia said, “in order to contribute to a healthier and more sustainable society. I feel that my year in NCCC will help in fulfilling this responsibility as well as grant me the opportunity to help others as I have been helped throughout my life.”

Patricia, known to most as Patty, brings several skills with her to NCCC, which help her be successful throughout her term with the program. She has previous experience with community service, which has given her skills such as teaching and community organizing. “I believe (these skills) are essential in creating and carrying out fruitful service projects,” she said.

Prior to joining NCCC, Patty was finishing her undergraduate degree. She graduated from San Francisco State University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She also graduated from Perris High School in 2007. After finishing the program, Patty hopes to continue her involvement in community service, as well as continue her education either at home or abroad.

Maple 1 is currently working from August 10 to September 26 with Camp Echoing Hills in Warsaw, Ohio. The team is assisting in the building and improvement of the Camp Echoing Hills challenge course, as well as creating wheelchair accessible walkways to get to each challenge course element. Maple 1 is a part of the planning process when it comes to the layout of the challenge course and is participating in building new elements with their current camp/maintenance staff.

Some fun facts about Patty:

Q: What is your favorite movie? Amelié

Q: What is your favorite book? The Education of a Wandering Man

Q: What is your favorite candy? Snickers

Q: What is your favorite food? Enchiladas (cheese)

Q: What is your favorite animal? Emperor monkey

Q: What is your favorite super hero? Wonder Woman

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? Ireland

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Paint and listen to music