AmeriCorps readies Caldera for Summer

A team of eight AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (AmeriCorps NCCC) Members is working with Camp Caldera near Sisters to help prepare the land, facility and surrounding areas for the summer season and youth retreats. Corps Members also assist in the Caldera classroom at Sisters Middle School.

While at Camp Caldera, AmeriCorps NCCC members are setting up 19 Sioux teepees and inventorying the camp supplies. Corps members are also assisting in the repair of the horse corral, staining decks and bridges, and remodeling the bathhouse.

Corps members are clearing, maintaining, and improving hiking trails surrounding the camp to make them safe for children in the wake of damage from the 2003 B&B Complex Fire.

In addition, groups of two corps members offer classroom support and help create service-learning opportunities for Caldera participants.

Camp Caldera offers arts programs for youths from Portland and throughout Central Oregon. Its mission is to foster creativity, provoke experimentation and stimulate a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Artists and naturalists work with children during summer camps at Caldera’s Blue Lake site, followed by year-round support back in their local communities.

AmeriCorps members must complete at least 1,700 hours of service during a 10-month program. They receive $4,725 to help pay for college or to pay school loans.