Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 18 Corps Member Spotlight: Elizabeth Otto

By: Rachel Lebeaux Name: Elizabeth Otto Hometown: LeRoy, Kan. Elizabeth is currently serving as a member of Oak 7 with the AmeriCorps NCCC at the Vinton Campus. She is dedicated to serving others and has experiences with remodeling, painting and plumbing. Elizabeth’s desire to serve stems from her parents influence. They were always willing to help those in need. Elizabeth doesn’t remember a time when her household was just her immediate family. There were always individuals in an out who needed a safe place to stay. Elizabeth graduated from Southern Coffey County High School in 2008. She is currently attending Pittsburgh State University studying Psychology with an emphasis in Developmental Disabilities. In addition, Elizabeth has been a care giver for her Great Aunt as well as working as a Photographer and Psychosocial Aide at Allen County Mental Health Clinic. After her term of service, Elizabeth would like to finish her degree and find a job working with individuals with special needs. Elizabeth decided to join NCCC after speaking with a former NCCC member. She had been looking for different ways to serve communities after her experiences doing tornado relief in Joplin, Missouri and Alabama. NCCC seemed like a unique opportunity to continue doing what she loves while gaining new skills and experiences. Elizabeth and her team are currently serving in Walker, Iowa at Camp Hitaga, creating blueprints of cabins and cleaning the facilities. Prior to this project, Oak 7 served in Custer, S.D. with the Mountain Pine Beetle Project, eliminating the spread of the Mountain Pine Beetle by log rolling and tree girdling as well as Columbus, Ohio assisting the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Columbus with the construction and rehabilitation of homes. Some fun facts about Elizabeth: Q: What is your favorite movie? You’ve Got Mail Q: What is your favorite book? Pride and Prejudice Q: What is your favorite candy? Snickers Q: What is your favorite food? Grilled peanut butter and banana sandwich Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? India Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Play music