Et cetera : AmeriCorps NCCC Class 19 Team Leader Spotlight: Brenna Huggins

By: Rebecca Bigler

Brenna Huggins, from Mukilteo, Wash., is the Team Leader for Oak 1 in NCCC’s Class 19. She arrived in Vinton on January 8, 2013, to start her 11-month service term leading a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Oak 1 is made up of 11 people from across the country, and they will serve together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region.

“I want to work in the non-profit industry,” Brenna said. Since NCCC works with so many different non-profit organizations, Brenna will get a lot of experience that could help her get a non-profit job in the future. She is also ready to commit to the work ahead, adding, “I am passionate about service.”

Brenna has several skills that she brings with her to the Team Leader position. One of those skills is a great sense of humor, which will help her connect and relate to her team members.

Prior to joining NCCC, Brenna was working at a tech start-up. She graduated from Occidental College in 2011 with a degree in economics for business management. She also graduated from Holy Names Academy in 2007. After finishing the program, Brenna hopes to either travel or start her own business.

Oak 1’s first project runs from March 11 to April 25 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 members are developing and facilitating classes for people with disabilities.

Some fun facts about Brenna:

Q: What was your first job? I had a paper route.

Q: What is your favorite movie? A Room With a View

Q: What will be your first words of advice for your team members? “Be respectful of your teammates.”

Q: What is one place in the world that you really, really wish you could visit? Russia, India, Fiji

Q: What is your favorite candy? Reese’s

Q: If you could come back as an animal which animal would it be and why? Cat, because they lie in the sun all day and get fed.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, sew, and travel.

Q: Could you give us one reason to join AmeriCorps NCCC? A great opportunity to serve different parts of the country.