Et cetera : NCCC’s Oak 1 triumphs with Michigan Department of Natural Resources

Teonna Clark and Andrew Kuka working on a seat for the amphitheater.

Mather Kimmett building picnic benches.

By Ruth Mapemba

AmeriCorps NCCC team Oak 1 is doing a two part project with the Department of Natural Resources in Michigan from August 10 to September 26

Their first part of the project was at Carp Lake, Michigan. The team assisted in building 20 picnic tables, pulled invasive species and started building a trail. The team had the opportunity to serve with Youth Connection, an organization based in Detroit, for two days. Oak 1 also built chairs for an amphitheatre with the Department of Natural Resources.

One member of Oak 1, Ruth Mapemba from Silver Spring, Maryland said, “This was such a great start to our project. Serving with the Youth Connection was so fun. The youth were energized and they taught me about Detroit and the Great Lakes.”

Oak 1 is now serving on their second project at Sleeper State Park in Caseville, Michigan. Oak 1 is cutting down trees and getting rid of brush. They are also cutting bundles of wood and painting two cabins, one building hall and one pavilion. Oak 1 has built 40 picnic tables so far and had another opportunity to serve with Youth Connection for three days.

Serving with the Department of Natural Resources has been a good project for Oak 1. Oak 1 has gained new skills and improved skills they brought with them to the project.  Oak 1 has been serving alongside great staff in both Caseville and Carp Lake. They have treated Oak 1 to two potluck lunches and countless snacks.