AmeriCorps NCCC deployed to aid Vermont towns still rebuilding after Irene

Eleven members from a Maryland based AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) Team have been deployed to Vermont to aid in rebuilding those communities still struggling to recover from Tropical Storm Irene.  Members will be stationed in three different communities throughout the state, beginning this past week on September 12th through November 2nd.  The arrival of this AmeriCorps NCCC Team not only provides direct service to these towns, but also highlights the critical need for skilled volunteers to assist in the ongoing rebuilding process. 

The Team began their tour of service in Granville and Hancock, and will transition next week to the Upper Valley, followed by the final stretch of their deployment in Windham County.  Designated projects for these skilled volunteers include individual homes still in need of rebuilding, as well as other community projects that remain unfinished.        

The NCCC Team is made up of 18-24 year olds who commit to serve full-time as part of a team-based residential program whose mission is to strengthen communities and develop leaders through direct, team-based national and community service.  In Vermont, they are doing just that, with support from numerous community groups and statewide agencies, including the nine Long Term Recovery Committees (LTRCs) that have emerged to support survivors.  Those committees hosting the teams include Mad River Flood Recovery, Upper Valley Strong, and Southeastern VT LTRC.  

SerVermont, (formally the Commission on National Community Service) is housed within the Agency of Human Services and serves to promote, support, and recognize volunteerism and community service in Vermont.   SerVermont is acting as the sponsor for the NCCC Team, and is working closely with LTRCs, and the federally-funded Disaster Case Management Program as part of the state’s recovery network to oversee construction and volunteer coordination for recovery projects throughout the state.  

As the construction season becomes shorter, more skilled volunteers will be needed to maximize the number of families who will be able to return home before winter. To volunteer your resources to the recovery effort, visit SerVermont at http://www.servermont.vt.gov