Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Team Leader Spotlight: Zachary Kahn

By: Rebecca Bigler

Zachary Kahn, from Silver Spring, Md., is the Team Leader for Cedar 2 in NCCC’s Class 19. He arrived in Vinton on January 8, 2013, to start his 11-month service term leading a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Cedar 2 is made up of eight people from across the country, and they will serve together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region.

Zachary, known to most as Zak, joined NCCC for a variety of reasons. “AmeriCorps NCCC provides me an opportunity to travel, develop my skills as a leader, and gain the kind of hands on learning experiences that I believe are necessary in today's world,” Zak said. “It's not enough to know that the environment is worth saving to me - I want to lead a group of driven individuals on the front line, shovels and all.”

Prior to joining NCCC, Zak was working for the Anacostia Watershed Society in a variety of labor-based capacities. He was helping them overhaul the historic property on which they are headquartered for their sustainable sites initiative. Before that, Zak spent two months at Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage in Rutledge, MO as an intern. “I learned all about the work that goes in to building, maintaining, and living in a highly sustainable intentional community,” he said.

Zak graduated from Knox College in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology and sociology. He also graduated from Albert Einstein High School in 2007. After finishing the program, his future is pretty open. “I am approaching my service as a way to guide what I do after my service,” Zak said. “So if I find a role I love, I'd like to stick with that! I've discussed a potential move to Colorado as one of many possibilities.”

Cedar 2 is working with Black Hills Workshop in Rapid City, S.D. The team is working as support volunteers in the Suzie Cappa Art Center, the Health Sport and Fitness Center, the STEPS Program, the Sensory Room and the Retirement Center. In these areas, they are developing and facilitating classes for people with disabilities.

Some fun facts about Zachary:

Q: What was your first job? Summer camp counselor

Q: What is your favorite movie? Blues Brothers

Q: What will be your first words of advice for your team members? “Remember to tuck your shirt in.”

Q: What is one place in the world that you really, really wish you could visit? Winter Palace, St. Petersburg, Russia

Q: What is your favorite candy? Reese’s Cups

Q: If you could come back as an animal which animal would it be and why? Moose. Size, antlers, general demeanor.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Find new music

Q: Could you give us one reason to join AmeriCorps NCCC? Being around all these dedicated, engaging, and diverse folks offers one a great encouragement for personal growth.