Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Corps Member Spotlight: Ilexis Elba

Ilexis Elba, from Hollywood, Fla., is a member of Cedar 2 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. Cedar 2 is made up of 8 people from across the country, and they will serve together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region.

“I want to be able to travel, meet new people, and do selfless acts all at once,” Ilexis said. “I also read a lot about the program and thought I would be comfortable and learn a lot from the experience.”

Ilexis brings a lot of skills with her to NCCC, which will help throughout her term with the program. She is a very flexible person, hardworking, and loves to learn and try new things. She can work easily by herself or with a team. She is also lifeguard and CPR certified.

Prior to joining NCCC, Ilexis was working and traveling. She graduated from the University of Florida in May 2012 with a degree in psychology. She also graduated from Western High School in 2008. After finishing her term, Ilexis hopes to apply for graduate school in psychology. If that doesn’t work, “I want to find an interesting job that allows me to somehow travel, learn, or supplement my love for psychology or giving back,” she says.

Ilexis had a unique experience in one of her travels prior to coming to NCCC. “My recent trip to Honduras was an eye-opening experience just because of the difference in the quality of life compared to the states,” she said. “It really makes one appreciate all they have. Visiting and meeting people from different places around the world in itself is always a unique experience.”

Cedar 2’s current project runs from May 3 to June 24 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 Ilexis:

Q: What is your favorite movie? Various chick flicks and some scary movies and comedies (not specific)

Q: What is your favorite book? Into the Wild

Q: What is your favorite candy? KitKat. I love dark chocolate.

Q: What is your favorite animal? Dog

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? Spain and the Greek islands

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Be outside!! Swim, run, scuba dive, climb, learn