Regional Service Corps has shown me the world in a way I don’t think I would have seen without my service. I’ve seen that the world does need to change and that I can be that change. I’ve learned that as one person I can do a lot but as a part of a group, as a member of a team what I can do increases exponentially.

I’m proud that I’ve had a positive and hopefully lasting impact on so many members of the community. I’m a much more confident person since I started with the Regional Service Corps. I no longer continually ask myself “if” I can do something … I ask myself “how” I’m going to do it. I don’t try to do things, I get things done.

Dusti Thurman, Class of 2010 and 2011

I thought I knew myself pretty well until I spent a year of service with RSC-AmeriCorps. Having been in the workforce for thirty some years, I saw AmeriCorps as an opportunity to start sliding into retirement and exercise my “community servant” muscles. On the contrary, this year has been super challenging and tremendously rewarding! The lessons I’ve learned in leadership and teamwork alone would have enhanced every position I’ve had in the past and will make every future endeavor more successful! How amazing it would have been to have had this opportunity at age 18!

Suzanne Carroll, Class of 2011

There are many experiences and beautiful moments to be cherished, but beyond the emotional side of being an AmeriCorps member, the sense of being part of an effort, as it is, a project, to not only change the communities, but ourselves, is invaluable.

Tony Pillado, Class of 2011

One of the most enlightening moments of my term of service was with a student I worked with throughout the entire year. After months of reading aloud almost daily, I pulled out a grade level reading assessment. She read through it clearly, loudly, and confidently. I told her she not only achieved being on grade level, she actually exceeded it. She jumped up with a huge grin on her face, hugged me, and then ran inside to hug the teacher.

It's times like these where you see the impact one person can make. All those hours of sleep lost, all the hard work, all the determination required, all the frustration suddenly become worth it when you see that child. When something finally makes sense to them, and that grin appears, I forgot everything else and knew that a difference was made because of something I did.

Working with RSC-AmeriCorps, I have found a huge passion for helping children within my local community.

Caitlin Luerkens, Class of 2011

I have gained so much from my AmeriCorps experience. I have grown to be a better person and have gained valuable skills and knowledge that will help me succeed in my future career. Before I started my service year with AmeriCorps, I was shy and quiet and I had no clear plans for my future. My time with AmeriCorps has helped me to realize my potential and to see that there are so many interesting and worthwhile things I can do with my future. I have had so many amazing experiences and the memories that I've shared with my team members will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Jennifer VanTuyl, Class of 2011 and 2012