The Catskill Chronicle

CLARYVILLE, NY (July 21, 2014) – A team with the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), an AmeriCorps program, is working with the Frost Valley YMCA to help maintain their current trail systems. For the next seven weeks, eight NCCC members will be working to improve the hiking experience for guests at their retreat center.

The team, Moose Four, will help improve Frost Valley’s most heavily used trails, which have experienced erosion and damage as a result of Hurricane Irene and three major floods. Specifically, they will be maintaining the tread system and installing proper drainage to create more sustainable trails. During its seven-week term with the Frost Valley YMCA, the team aims to improve over two miles of trails, remove invasive species, install water bars for proper drainage and repair two bridges.

“I’m thoroughly impressed with Moose Four’s work ethic, ability to complete challenges, their support to one another and their cheerful disposition, even though I’ve only know them for a short time.” said Heather Bowman, Director of Natural Resources.

While in the area, the team also assisted at the Sullivan County Relay for Life on June 7 at SUNY Sullivan.

Moose 4 is based in Perry Point, MD., but consists of members from around the country. In addition to working with the Frost Valley YMCA, members of the team will be working with the local volunteer fire department, Relay for Life and the East Valley Ranch.

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About AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, residential, national service program in which 1,100 young adults serve nationwide each year.  During their 10-month term, Corps Members – all 18 to 24 years old – work on teams of eight to 12 on projects that address critical needs related to natural and other disasters, infrastructure improvement, environmental stewardship and conservation, energy conservation, and urban and rural development. Members mentor students, construct and rehabilitate low-income housing, respond to natural disasters, clean up streams, help communities develop emergency plans, and address countless other local needs. The Atlantic Region campus in Perry Point is one of five regional hubs in the United States and serves fourteen states in the northeast part of the country.  The other campuses are located in Denver, Colorado, Sacramento, California, Vicksburg, Mississippi and Vinton, Iowa.

In exchange for their service, Corps Members receive $5,645 to help pay for college, or to pay back existing student loans. Other benefits include a small living stipend, room and board, leadership development, increased self-confidence, and the knowledge that, through active citizenship, people can indeed make a difference.  AmeriCorps NCCC is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency. The Corporation improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. For more information about AmeriCorps NCCC, visit the website at www.NationalService.gov