Kathleen Bolinger, from New Castle, Ind., is a member of Oak 7 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. Oak 7 is made up of nine people from across the country, and they are serving together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region throughout their term.

“Before I started a career or grad school, I wanted to do something that I felt would be really important,” Kathleen said, when asked why she joined NCCC. She wanted that experience to be “something that I could feel good about and look back upon for the rest of my life.”

Kathleen, known to most as Kate, brings several skills with her to NCCC, which help her be successful throughout her term with the program. She is a good listener and a quick learner.

Prior to joining NCCC, Kate was working a regular job. She graduated from Ball State University in December 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in general studies. She also graduated from New Castle Chrysler High School in May 2007. After finishing the program, Kate hopes to possibly do a second year of service.

Oak 7 is currently working from August 10 to September 26 with Nebraska Forests & Grasslands in Halsey and Chadron, Neb. The team is assisting with fence removal, repair and installation at Bessey Ranger District. This fencing keeps wildlife from disturbing growing nursery trees that forest roadways and parks in Nebraska and neighboring states. The team is also assisting with hazardous tree and other debris removal activities at the Hudson-Meng District, which was affected by wildfires in the summer of 2012.

 Some fun facts about Kate:

Q: What is your favorite movie? High Fidelity

Q: What is your favorite book? Harry Potter series

Q: What is your favorite candy? Chocolate

Q: What is your favorite food? Sandwiches

Q: What is your favorite animal? Donkey

Q: What is your favorite super hero? Batman

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? Prague

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, watch movies, be outside