Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Corps Member Spotlight: Jill Ament

By: Rebecca Bigler

Jill Ament, from Gatesville, Texas, is a member of Maple 4 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 4 is made up of nine 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 feel like there are pressing issues that face our country, environmentally, economically, and socially, and people need help now more than ever,” Jill said, when asked why she joined NCCC. “I felt (NCCC) would be a good opportunity to get firsthand experience in addressing those issues and offering my hand in service. I'm also interested in traveling the country, meeting people and learning more about the U.S.”

Jill brings several skills with her to NCCC, which help her be successful throughout her term with the program. She is a good communicator verbally and in writing, which is a skill gained through interning and working in the broadcast industry. She plays guitar, sings, and has experience with videography and editing software.

Prior to joining NCCC, Jill was working at a TV News station, doing mainly studio and production work. Before that, she was a videography intern with Teach for America in New York City. “I think my work with Teach for America really sparked something inside of me to continue to pursue public service,” she said. Jill graduated from Texas State University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications for electronic media. She also graduated from Gatesville High School in 2008. After completing her service, Jill hopes to pursue joining a non-profit videography team, continuing journalism, or attending grad school.

Maple 4 is currently working from August 9 to September 2 with Earth Tipi in Manderson, S.D. The team is assisting Earth Tipi with meeting their mission of empowering people on the Pine Ridge Reservation by teaching natural building and permaculture techniques. The team is creating a swale, building an interpretive trail, conducting a summer camp, and leading volunteers in the garden.

Some fun facts about Jill:

Q: What is your favorite movie? Beasts of the Southern Wild

Q: What is your favorite book? To Kill a Mockingbird

Q: What is your favorite candy? Reeses peanut butter cups

Q: What is your favorite food? Chicken fajitas

Q: What is your favorite animal? Horses

Q: What is your favorite super hero? Batman

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? The Czech Republic

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, write, play music, run, watch movies