Challenge Academy graduates complete AmeriCorps service

Five graduates from the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy completed 10 months of service with the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) Nov. 17.

Samantha Czerkas of Cross Plains, Taylor Maciosek of Milladore, Samuel Puchalla of Sheboygan, Ryan Skiff of Mauston, and Starr Spencer of Eau Claire - all Dec. 18, 2010 graduates from Class 25 - completed various projects across the Midwest ranging from building and restoring homes, managing invasive species, mentoring youth, engaging in disaster response, developing trail systems, and restoring parks and recreational facilities. All five earned the Congressional Award for their achievement in public service, personal development, physical fitness, and exploration activities. In addition, Czerkas, Maciosek, Puchalla and Spencer also achieved the Presidential Award for completing 100 independent service project (ISP) hours and leading an ISP. All five also earned a $5,350 educational award to use for higher education.

The National Guard Youth Challenge Program and AmeriCorps NCCC have developed a partnership with the hopes that more cadets will transition into service to community work with NCCC. Currently, there are 15 Challenge Academy graduates from Class 22 through Class 26 who are serving at AmeriCorps campuses around the country. In addition, 16 cadets from the Class 27 residential class are preparing to begin their service in February 2012.