Et cetera : NCCC Cedar 5 Works In Jackson, Michigan for exciting first project

AmeriCorps NCCC Cedar 5 at the fireplace in Malachi Dining Hall at YMCA Storer Camps, Jackson, MI.

By Emma Prichard and Kegan Kegley

AmeriCorps NCCC team, Cedar 5, is working at YMCA Storer Camps in Jackson, Michigan. The team is working on invasive plant species removal and leading classes for local students who visit the camp. This is the team’s first project in their ten month service term with NCCC and it ends on May 11.

The team’s goal is to clear 10 acres of invasive plant species, such as buckthorn, honeysuckle and garlic mustard, a goal they are close to reaching. Another project is rehabilitating a tamarack swamp by poisoning the maple trees which are blocking sunlight from the tamarack trees. The team has also spent a week serving as cabin leaders with a group of students.

“Because I am a member of the YMCA and I have family who work for the YMCA, I am really excited to give back to an organization that has given so much to me,” says NCCC member John Holback. The rest of the team shares the excitement.

YMCA Storer Camps is associated with the YMCA of Greater Toledo, and is located in Southeast Michigan near Jackson. Storer Camps are an accredited camp through the American Camp Association. Founded in 1918, they are committed “to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs and experiences in the natural environment that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” Every year, more than 16,000 people attend Storer Camps.