For many Corpsmembers, their success at NJ Youth Corps means more than a diploma—it symbolizes perseverance, growth, and new beginnings. That is exactly what was accomplished by recent New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg alum, Larry Au Jr.
October 2025 Graduation!
Celebrating New Beginnings: NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg Honors 14 Graduates at Merrill Creek Reservoir
Phillipsburg, NJ — The NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg proudly celebrated the achievements of fourteen young men and women who earned their high school diplomas during a moving graduation ceremony held Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the picturesque Merrill Creek Reservoir.
Family members, local leaders, and program staff gathered to cheer on the Class of 2025 and reflect on the Corps’ mission—to provide young adults ages 16–25 with opportunities to earn their diploma while developing valuable life skills, gaining work experience, and serving their community.
This year’s venue was especially meaningful. Over the past year, Corpsmembers have spent countless hours at Merrill Creek, giving back to the community through conservation and restoration projects that protect the land and water for all to enjoy. From trail maintenance and habitat restoration to environmental education and stewardship, their hands-on work has left a lasting impact—making the site a fitting and heartfelt place to celebrate their accomplishments.
Video of images of all graduates during their terms with NJYC.
“These graduates have worked hard, not only in the classroom but in service to their community and environment,” said Michael Muckle, Program Director of the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg. “Merrill Creek represents both the beauty of what they’ve helped preserve and the strength of what they’ve built within themselves. We couldn’t imagine a better place to honor their journey.”
“You’re smarter, more resilient and more determined than ever. The NJYC didn’t just help us get our diploma ,it helped us regain our futures.””
Graduate and Class Salutatorian John Foose was reflective, appreciative and encouraging in his address to the audience. “To my fellow grads, look around; every face you see here today tells a totally different story of perseverance. We all come from entirely different backgrounds but we all have made a choice to keep moving ahead in life. You are not completely the same person …you're smarter, more resilient and more determined than ever. The NJYC didn't just help us get our diplomas,it helped us regain our futures.”
Over the course of each Corpsmembers 16-week cohort, they engage in the educational and metaphorical work of conservation, specifically in the area of habitat creation and restoration. For the NJYCP, they have focused on Monarch butterflies; a theme that is easily accessible and demonstrable. Corpsmembers harvest and then germinate milkweed seeds to grow and then transplant. Being its host plant, milkweed is essential for the Monarch's survival.
They also will utilize an observation habitat to closely monitor caterpillars as they form their chrysalis and transform to take flight. NJYCP Instructor Thea Muckle said “What we grew was not just some milkweed plants intended to give this beautiful and unique pollinating species a chance. What also grew was our corpsmembers confidence in knowing that they invested in their future; not just by making a difference in the monarch’s habitat, but in themselves- learning the academic and vocational skills that are just the beginning of their journey.”
For many Corpsmembers, the ceremony represented more than a diploma—it symbolized perseverance, growth, and new beginnings. Class Valedictorian Larry Au, Jr. said in his speech “Before enrolling in the class, I was kinda lost. I didn't know what I was going to make of myself, as I'm sure some of you can relate. We all worked very hard to be here… It's what you make with what you have that changes the outcome of your life. Push yourself to work harder and push past the difficulties life throws at you. Just because you feel alone, doesn't necessarily mean you are. When I first came to the Youth Corps, I was scared and nervous. I didn't know what to expect. But with time, and the right people, I felt welcomed and accepted… The people I've met here led me to believe there is hope, and there are opportunities for all of us to grow and change. You don't have to be anything for anyone but yourself.”
“I got my diploma with the support and love of my family and my Youth Corps family.”
One graduate’s story was one that took over a decade to come to fruition. Alissa Griffin, a Corpsmember from 2014, wasn't successful when she first took her exams - “I thought that I didn't need my high school diploma, that it meant nothing, and I could get by in life just fine without it. In the 11 years since I have left the Youth Corps, I had two beautiful girls, fell in love and got a supervisor position with the company that I have been with for 10 years. Fast forward to the beginning of September of this year. I started to feel stuck. I needed to make changes for myself and my family. Today is a celebration- a celebration of perseverance, of courage, and of Second Chances. I got my diploma with the support and love of my family and my Youth Corps family. With the completion of this step, I now anxiously, but excitedly, begin my new journey- college, more classes, more goals and more dreaded tests, but I know I can do it-one step at a time.”
Community partners who have supported the Corps throughout the year were also on hand to celebrate. “The NJ Youth Corps has been an incredible partner to Merrill Creek,” said John Parke, Environmental Specialist at Merrill Creek Reservoir. “Their energy and commitment to conservation have made a real difference here. Seeing them graduate in the very place they’ve served feels like the perfect full circle.”
As the graduates look ahead to new opportunities, their contributions to both the Phillipsburg community and the natural spaces they’ve helped preserve will continue to inspire others to learn, serve, and grow.
NJYC of Phillipsburg is accepting applications for the program. A new cohort begins on Monday November 3rd, 2025 and there are still available seats in that class! Text GOALS to 908-859-2969 to begin learning about us. Apply today! www.njycphillipsburg.com/apply-now
About the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg:
The New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg offers young adults ages 16 to 25 a fresh start and a path forward. Whether you’re looking to earn your high school diploma, gain job experience, or make a difference in your community, the Corps provides the support and opportunities to help you get there.
At the Phillipsburg Corps, learning goes beyond the classroom. Corpsmembers spend their days combining education with meaningful hands-on service projects—restoring local parks, improving community spaces, and helping the environment thrive. Along the way, they build teamwork, leadership, and life skills that last well beyond graduation.
Every member’s journey is guided by dedicated staff who believe in second chances and the power of service to transform lives. The NJ Youth Corps isn’t just about earning a diploma—it’s about discovering your strengths, setting new goals, and finding your place in the community.
The NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg is funded through the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, helping young people build brighter futures for themselves and stronger communities for everyone.
To learn more or to apply
text GOALS to 908-859-2969
#SecondChanceSuccess #EarnYourDiploma #GEDGoals #FutureStartsNow #LevelUpYourLife #BelieveInYourself #YouGotThis #WarrenCountyNJ #PhillipsburgNJ #GoalGetter #SuccessAwaits #TheCorpsNetwork #EarnWhileYouLearn #Conservation #Education
Celebrating National Public Lands Day with NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg
Every September, people all across the country come together for National Public Lands Day (NPLD)—a day dedicated to giving back to the parks, trails, forests, and open spaces that we all share. This year, on Saturday, September 27, 2025, we’re excited to celebrate the role the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg plays in keeping our local public lands healthy, beautiful, and open for everyone to enjoy.
How We Pitch In
If you’ve ever walked a trail, relaxed at a park, or explored preserved land in Warren County, chances are you’ve seen (or walked on!) some of the work our crews have helped with. Thanks to our partnerships with the Town of Phillipsburg, the Warren County Department of Land Preservation and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), our Corps members get hands-on experience making a real difference outdoors.
Here are just a few ways we help care for our public lands:
🌱 Pulling out invasive plants and planting native ones so wildlife has a healthy home
🚶♀️ Building and repairing trails so they’re safe and accessible
🛠️ Fixing up picnic areas, fences, and park facilities
🌊 Helping with conservation projects that protect waterways and open space
It’s hard work sometimes, but it’s also rewarding—our members gain job skills, learn about the environment, and see firsthand the impact of their efforts in the community.
Why It Matters
Corpsmembers learn teamwork and communication skills working to help maintain public assets like parks and trails.
National Public Lands Day isn’t just about one day of service. It’s about remembering that our parks and open spaces need year-round care—and that when we all pitch in, amazing things can happen. With the support of our partners in Warren County and the NJDEP, we’re proud to do our part in keeping these places thriving.
The work also helps reengage youth with the great outdoors - we use these outdoor spaces as an extension of our classrooms, allowing Corpsmembers to reinforce lessons learned while physically engaging in their learning process.
Celebrate With Us
This weekend, we hope you’ll celebrate National Public Lands Day in your own way: volunteer at a park, take a hike, enjoy some fresh air, or just pause to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors. Public lands are OURS to enjoy and protect!
From all of us at the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg, happy National Public Lands Day! Let’s keep working together to take care of the lands we love—for today, tomorrow, and generations to come!
Do you know a young person who would like to earn money while pursuing their high school diploma and gaining employable skills through work experiences? Call or text GOALS to 908-859-2969 to learn more about the program or have them apply for an upcoming Youth Corps class at njycphillipsburg.com/apply-now
ABOUT NEW JERSEY YOUTH CORPS OF PHILLIPSBURG:
Funded by the NJ Department of Labor & Workforce Development, The New Jersey Youth Corps is a four-month program for 16-25 year old out-of-school youth that combines academic instruction with job readiness experiences. Youth Corps helps identify and dismantle barriers to success. Participants can earn up to $1,900 in incentives over the course of the program. Additionally, NJYC provides transitional services to all participants post program completion into employment, secondary education, credentialed training, etc.
#education #phillipsburgnj #CorpsWork #ConservationInAction #YouthCorps #NJYCPhillipsburg #merrillcreekreservoir #secondchances #GED #warrencountynj #NationalPublicLandsDay
Coming Out of Their Shells!
Coming out of their Shells
Corpsmembers assist in the collection of actionable data for the NJ Department of Environmental Protection while pursuing their education. Corpsmembers monitor native species' health and populations by observing species in their habitats, collecting data that guide conservation, habitat protection, and regulations to sustain New Jersey’s turtle populations and ecosystems.
NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg celebrates #NJClimateWeek2025!
As part of the service component of their program, New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg Corpsmembers routinely survey for two listed species of turtle at Merrill Creek Reservoir. Wood Turtles are a Threatened Species in NJ and Box Turtles are a NJ Species of Special Concern due to habitat degradation and the exotic pet trade. In conservation terms, “Threatened” is one category below endangered and “Species of Concern” is a category below Threatened.
We began this aspect of our service back in 2023, when we worked with NJ Department of Environmental protection staff to help train us to know how to conduct the survey (where & when) and what data to record.
Combing through the wooded areas, fields, and stream banks of Merrill Creek’s 2,700-acre property, Corpsmembers searched for these two turtle species. Once found, Corpsmembers measured the turtle’s length, weight, and they photographed its shell (did you know that the design on the shell of a turtle is unique to that individual just like your fingerprints are unique to you?).
“Turtle surveying “Connects them (Corpsmembers) to nature, understanding that there are other organisms out there that need our help.” ”
This data collected is sent to the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife where it is stored in a database. This data is stored so when Corpsmembers find a turtle that was last observed two (or even twenty!) years ago, scientists can compare measurements over time to learn a lot. Did the turtle grow more in some years than others? Are these growth rates correlated with activities thought to be threatening these species? Over time, this database is used to inform conservation efforts.
Through these ‘citizen science’ efforts, Corpsmembers then take this work experience with them back to the classroom where they study for the high school equivalency exam. The hands-on learning that occurs in the field is a good base from which to jump into a math lesson covering measurement and data analysis. Or a science lesson, where topics covered include evolution, natural selection, and ecosystems. Through these services, Corpsmembers are providing actionable scientific data to agencies while bolstering their academic skills.
Interested in learning more about Youth Corps?
Do you know a young person who would like to earn money while pursuing their high school diploma and gaining employable skills through work experiences?
Have them apply for an upcoming Youth Corps class at njycphillipsburg.com/apply-now.
NJYC of Phillipsburg Graduates Ten!
NJYC Celebrates Graduates!
Hard work at a second-chance yields success for 10 Graduates in Inspiring Ceremony
Phillipsburg, NJ – The NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg proudly celebrated the achievements of 10 graduates during a heartfelt ceremony held at the Phillipsburg Housing Authority Community Room on Monday, February 24, 2025. The event honored the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of Corpsmembers who successfully completed the program and obtained their diplomas - equipping themselves with valuable skills for their future.
Graduates toss their caps in the air!
The ceremony brought together graduates, their families, community leaders, and program staff to recognize the accomplishments of these young individuals who have overcome personal and academic challenges to reach this milestone.
“When you consider the barriers these young adults have faced in thier personal lives, the fact they are here celebrating this watershed moment in their young lives is nothing short of miraculous.” said Michael Muckle, Director of NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg. “These young adults have shown resilience and determination, and we are excited to see them take the next steps toward a bright future.”
“Each and every one of these students had faith in themselves. That’s why they’re sitting here today.”
Chris Mugavero, Transitions Coordinator for the NJYC Program addressing the audience stated “I’ve been with the organization for a little over 12 years now, .…I’ve seen one consistent theme with successful corps members and that is, They believed in themselves wholeheartedly, and when things got overwhelming or difficult, they never gave up, or threw in the towel. Faith is a strong word, and it’s sometimes difficult to maintain, but each and every one of these students had faith in themselves. That’s why they’re sitting here today.”
During the ceremony, graduates were also recognized for their contributions to community service projects, job readiness initiatives, and personal development. Many of the graduates have already secured employment, one enrolled in classes at Warren County Community College, and one even enlisted in the United States Army -reporting for basic training on March 24th, 2025.
“‘It allowed us the hands-on experience to better prepare us for the future and open us up to trying new things.” ”
Class Valedictorian, Westley Hutchison (himself a volunteer for the Phillipsburg Fire Department) addressed graduates and expressed a collective gratitude for the support he and his fellow graduates received through the program. “Before I came to the program, I was unaware of the things that went into trail preservation, I didn’t know how to change a tire, I didn’t know how to kayak. But now I do, and it’s thanks to the staff for allowing us to do the things we may or may not have done before. It allowed us the hands-on experience to better prepare us for the future and open us up to trying new things.”
The NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg remains committed to empowering young adults through education, service, and career development. Applications for upcoming cohorts are being accepted, and a new cohort is is slated to begin on Monday March 3rd, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out for more information.
For media inquiries or more information about NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg, please contact:
Michael Muckle, Director
NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg
908-859-2969
info@njycphillipsburg.com
www.njycphillipsburg.com
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The New Jersey Youth Corps program is funded in large part with a grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development. All NJ Youth Corps programs are members of The Corps Network - an association of over 150 service and conservation corps organizations across the United States.
A Tree (Still) Grows in Phillipsburg!
Greetings Friends! It’s been a while- with getting our Climate Corps up and running, things have taken a backseat, but on this 150th Anniversary of Arbor Day, I felt compelled to share a post.
The Original Space Shuttle Pine, April 2012
Arbor Day 2012, Walters Park
Over the years, I have planted thousands of trees alongside our Corpsmembers. Some big, some seedlings – but one tree will always be the most unique and treasured one to me. Ten years ago today, we planted our ‘Space Shuttle Pine’ - a special tree grown from seeds that had flown on a Space Shuttle Columbia mission to determine the results of weightlessness on seed germination.
A gift to the Town of Phillipsburg, then Shade Tree Commission President John Lynn won the tree at a raffle at a conference and decided it best to be shared with the community. In a small but special ceremony in Walters Park, a few CM’s and I planted to the tree with a certain reverence and appreciation.
Documents and a plaque from the 2012 Planting
Tre Tree after being pulled off the roof - before the grafting.
Flash-forward to August of 2014 - Less than 2 years in its place, we discovered that vandals had broken the crown of the tree off leaving only the stump. Feeling the job wasn’t quite done, they even took the effort to climb on top of the roof of the public restroom – and stick the tree into the plumbing vent stack. We were stunned that someone would so callously disregard something so special. I was surprised at myself feeling as heartbroken as I did.
2nd year growth, post grafting
In a desperate attempt to save the tree - we stuck it in water and brought it to the equivalent of an emergency room for plants - our friend Don at his family’s nursery. He was honest with us – our ‘patient’ wasn’t looking too good – but he promised he would do what he could. Working his magic by using cuttings from the ‘Space Tree’, Don grafted 15 cuttings in hopes we might be able to salvage something from this special tree.
Space Shuttle Pine v 2.0!
We were patient, crossed our fingers and let nature go to work. Don was careful not to disturb them to give them the best chance to take. Much to his and our surprise, a few did quite well! Flash forward 7 1/2 years later, Don dropped off one of the trees to us to plant today - it had grown to a height of almost 5 feet tall- Don had truly pulled off a miracle!
Today, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Arbor Day, we planted the Space Shuttle Pine v 2.0 - again (it feels strange to say that). Even though a decade has passed, our love for this ‘Little Pine That Could’ had only grown. If good fortune continues to shine down on us, the Space Shuttle Pine will continue to grow as well.
A lot of good fortune needed to take place for this to happen - but the life of this tree is an apt metaphor for the lives of some of our Corpsmembers. This tree, which already had traveled a distance of over a million miles before coming to us, after being carefully planted in an ideal environment for growth so that the community could share it - experienced trauma in such a way that by all measures should have ended it. But, to quote Dr. Malcolm (portrayed by Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park), “Life …finds a way.”
Delaware River Climate Corps members Gavin, Sanaya and Helen (l. to r.) plant the resurrected tree today.
The tree looks good, but just the transition from container to its new home reveals a certain vulnerability – it still relies on a stake for support to stand straight. Although the tree has been resurrected, its continued growth and progress are tentative. It was only through the caring hands of the community that gave it a chance to heal, root and thrive - the longitudinal aspect of the recovery process cannot be overstated. Resiliency is a trait that comes from experiencing dramatic changes but requires incredible efforts and incredible support systems to attain.
It's odd to think of a tree in a familial way, but this tree is a part of our Youth Corps family- as well as the community. Being in the presence of this little tree is very much like being with a friend – with an incredible story to tell. Let’s hope we all grow old together -
More soon – Until then, Live Long…and Prosper!
Michael
Season's Greetings!
Seasons Greetings to all our YC Friends & Family!
As I write to you today I feel humbled - so fortunate. Our staff was talking and reflecting- we’re having a hard time processing that another year has passed. I guess that is what happens when you’re so busy. Normally things at this time of year are winding down, but we seem to be ramping up.
Since we last checked in with you in November, we’ve completed our Urban Gateway Project, starting clearing encroachment on Warren Parks trails, decorated Shippen Manor and Shappell Park for the holiday season, and got some great news to finish off the year - the perfect elixir to carry our momentum into the new year!
Special Recognition:
In December we learned that a project we have been working on was recognized by Gov. Phil Murphy via the 22nd Annual Governor’s Environmental Excellence Awards. Working with NJ Audubon, the ecological work we performed at Hudson Farms won this recognition in the Healthy Ecosystems and Habitats category. We feel so humbled to be part of the project’s success and recognition. See the video here or click the image to the above/right.
Service Project Highlight:
Corpsmembers also were working hard on an invasive species removal project at White Lake this past week - clearing about 1/2 an acre of treated phragmities (frag-mite-ees) - a non-native species of reed grass that is crowding the access area to the lake. Corpsmembers brushcut the previosly treated area and removed the grasses to dispose of them. We had perfect weather to do this work as it was warm and in the upper 40’s and low 50’s. See the video of their work here or click the link above.
Educational Highlight:
On the educational front - our latest cohort has been working hard on their academics - looking forward to their test dates in January. But for now - We have some great news to report that a Corpsmember from our last cohort was finally rewarded for her determination and dedication and passed the HSE Hi-Set exam earlier this month - Please join us in congratulating Gina Gonzalez-Ruta on obtaining her High School Diploma! We believed in you until you believed in yourself! CONGRATULATIONS GINA!
Seasonal Highlight:
As a special holiday project, we’ve recently delved into painting as a means to express ourselves. Corpsmembers produced some decor that adorns our walls and enhances the spirit of the holidays. Check out their work in the photo to the left!
Finishing the Year on a High Note!
Since our inception, we’ve been aspiring to provide programming that mirrors our roots in the Civilian Conservation Corps - with environmental work on public lands as a focus within our region. Over that time, we have developed into a versatile program that has become an indispensable force here in Warren County - developing fee-for-service agreements with many program partners. Through this model, we’ve been able to increase our capacity for more work and provide unique experiences for our Corpsmembers as they pursue their education. It’s been a win-win, for sure. One of thirteen programs in NJ, we are also members of an organization called The Corps Network (TCN)- a national association of service and conservation corps all across America -TCN provides advocacy, resources and a wealth of Corps operational knowledge. Being a member provides access to additional funding & grant opportunities, service opportunities, sharing of best practices and the ability to engage in the cooperative agreements that allow programs to do work with some federal partners and private foundations - and much more.
We are excited to share the news that The Corps Network is in receipt of a $1.65 million grant from the William Penn Foundation to launch the Delaware River Climate Corps (DRCC): an initiative to enhance climate resiliency and strengthen green career pathways through expanding Corps programming within the Delaware River watershed across Delaware, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Over the course of 2022, these funds will help engage young adults in conservation workforce development and critical conservation projects. The DRCC will invest in building upon established Corps programs – including New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg (NJYCP) and PowerCorpsPHL (PCPHL) – and establishing new Corps programs in eight additional communities. DRCC crews will launch within the 2022 calendar year. Read the press release here or click the image to the right above.
It’s an exciting time! We have been building to this opportunity for years and it’s now on our doorstep. While the details of the DRCC for NJYCP are still in development (we will share more in our next blog post) - suffice it to say, we are honored and humbled to be included in this regional initiative.
in closing:
We will reflect and reminisce about this past year - and be thankful to all of you out there who support us and believe in our work. It is simultaneously humbling and energizing that we have your support. On behalf of all of the Staff & Corpsmembers at NJYCP - we wish you all a happy, healthy holiday season!
Until next year (yep, I said it) -
Michael
Giving Thanks
Dear NJYC of Phillipsburg Friends and Family -
Gratitude.
Webster’s Dictionary defines gratitude in the following way: : a feeling of appreciation or thanks, the state of being grateful.
On Tuesday- as we gathered in our YC kitchen after we enjoyed another Thanksgiving meal Tuesday, we went around the room and expressed what we were thankful for - how we were grateful.
“Gratitude : a feeling of appreciation or thanks, the state of being grateful. ”
Some Corpsmembers expressed their appreciation for a program that accepted them as they were - others gave thanks to their friends, their pets, and the supportive networks that keep them going. Some Corpsmembers expressed their appreciation as to how NJYC accepted them and quickly became an extension of their families - familiar and supportive - and that they loved the new environment they were in. It was all really humbling.
Over the past year, we’ve seen our Corpsmembers face insurmountable odds - and overcome them. We’ve seen them succeed when all others had written them off as failures. We’ve seen miracles - and setbacks-and have seen Corpsmemebres rise to the occasion and change our minds as they defy expectations. We’ve planted, harvested, cut, maintained, weeded, discovered, painted, built, preserved, blazed, trimmed, mapped, studied, tested, and succeeded. We Graduated!
We are so blessed to be a small part of the lives that cross the threshold into our YC world and embark on their individual quests for success. What a privilege to be witness to their success!
It is important to acknowledge the appreciation we have for our partners, our funders, and our participants. We couldn’t do this work with you all, and we are forever in your debt for your continued support of our work. It is not only timely - but appropriate to express our thanks and appreciation for all you do to support the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg and the Corps Movement as a whole. We couldn’t do this with YOU.
With gratitude in our hearts and appreciation for each and every one of you reading this - We wish you a Happy & Safe Thanksgiving to you and your families. We are so blessed to count you among our supporters.
With gratitude-
Michael
A new season, a new beginning.
Greetings NJYC Friends and Family-
In what seems like the blink of an eye, the season has changed. Mother Nature is putting on a dazzling display of fall colors - and just like that - we’ve gone from worrying about the heat and cutting growing grass to thinking of the holidays and winter weather. I don’t know about you, but the season crept up on us quite quickly.
New Cohort!
our newest Inductees!
That change in season also brought us a new cohort of Corpsmembers! Our November Cohort - Class 83 - began its orientation on Monday, November 1st with 12 enrollees. It’s one of the most exciting times for our program - getting the chance to meet new recruits and help them get started on this journey is a very challenging time, but the relationships formed are the reward. It can be difficult to establish trust and boundaries early on, but it is necessary for the formation of relationships that make us effective in our work. One unique aspect of this class is that every single member either knew or was related to someone that had previously attended our Corps - more proof positive that our best recruiting strategy is ‘word-of-mouth’ referrals! There is a positive vibe around the program overall.
The early feedback we’ve gotten is an affirmation of the program. 100% of the respondents to the intake survey said their Orientation experience was positive, and that the staff was friendly and accessible. I liked how One new Corpsmember succinctly responded to the question ‘What did you like about Orientation? He said, “Everything, no cap.”
““The staff made me feel like we’ve known each other forever, Youth Corp is a very welcoming place.””
Progression of the sod clearing.
Service Projects:
Even with a new cohort starting, Project work hasn’t been lacking - as we prepare for the winter months, the weather will naturally lend itself to indoor work. However, we will still be working outdoors through the winter. We began wrapping up some fall projects that have a pressing deadline at the end of this month. Back in the early Summer, we were warded an Urban Gateway Enhancement grant to perform landscaping and maintenance along the gateways into Phillipsburg - and we were finishing up that grant with one of the larger installations along South Main Street. Some local residents may have been curious about the clearing of sod down along South Main Street in Phillipsburg near the town line. That clearing was the preparation we need to establish a pollinator meadow to enhance the gateway area.
CM's worked at clearing the sod, treating the cleared area, tilling the soil, and then planting the site. Species of plants that will benefit pollinators were selected by CM's after doing research on local, native species of plants. The garden/meadow area will not be in full bloom until next spring - but will provide much-needed habitat for our pollinator friends while giving color to the planted area almost all through the growing season. We look forward to sharing photos of the area next spring as it gets established! Watch the video of the progress of the project here or by clicking on the video below.
In Other News:
Another exciting development this past week was the premiere of The Corps Network’s long-form video titled ‘The Modern Corps Movement’ - The modern Corps movement is powerful. Across the country, Corps programs make a difference every day in our communities, on our lands, and in the lives of thousands of young adults. In the new short film, you can learn the history of the Corps movement, hear from young people serving in Corps, and see the potential of a Civilian Climate Corps. You can see the video here of watch by clicking below.
As a member Corps of The Corps Network, NJYC of Phillipsburg seeks to expand on the opportunity that the development of a #CivilianClimateCorps brings to our youth, our immediate community and our region as a whole. As part of the Modern Corps Movement, we feel we have an opportunity to enhance our Corps program by offering more credentialed training and create pathways to careers for our Corpsmembers. More on that soon, so watch this space!
We’ll continue to keep you posted in the coming weeks about the things happening at our Corps - so until then - Be well and stay safe!
Yours in Service-
Michael
Citizen Science, Outdoor Classrooms & A Civilian Climate Corps
Greetings Youth Corps Friends and Family!
It’s been a while since we updated you on the goings-on of our program, but we’ve been toiling away at studying for our HiSet Exams and working on a few projects: Urban Gateway, Warren County properties, and plantings with the NJ Audubon. The time just keeps going by faster and faster. Soon, we’ll be starting a new cohort and the process begins anew.
““Merrill Creek is thrilled to serve as a living laboratory for this innovative program. We feel fortunate to partner with Youth Corps of Phillipsburg and NJ Audubon to improve climate and ecological literacy in Corps members at a time when this type of education is so critically important.””
As the warmer weather becomes cooler and days become shorter, our opportunities for outdoor work and classroom time will be less and less - but recently we conducted an exercise outside that was the culmination of time, weather - and patience. It also established a working relationship with the folks at Merrill Creek Reservoir - we’re really excited about that.
Months ago, I was having a conversation with our friend John Parke from NJ Audubon about how NJYC of Phillipsburg had greatly benefitted from the partnership formed between us through all the plantings we’d done together. I had mentioned that I would like for our Corpsmembers to have more opportunities for more technical applications relative to restoration work we were doing - specifically engaging our students in activities that scientifically assess the water bodies we were working in and around.
John came through in a big way! He was able to purchase some scientific equipment - data loggers - after securing funding via The Lower Delaware Wild & Scenic Management Council (www.lowerdelawarewildandscenic.org) These funds supported New Jersey Audubon’s Water Quality Monitoring through a NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg Partnership with funding from the National Parke Service (CFDA: 15.962 – National Wild and Scenic River System). We deployed the data loggers back in July and this past week we retrieved them, downloaded the data, and then interpreted the numbers. We were pleasantly surprised by what we found. Watch the video for more!
“...our data confirmed the water body was healthy””
The data revealed that the profile of the creek’s temperature and dissolved oxygen levels are suitable habitat for trout production - and that the habitat surrounding the water body was contributing to the overall health of the creek. The day was accentuated by doing some macroinvertebrate sampling - another parameter of assessing water quality. CM’s were able to wade into the stream, look under some rocks and see what kind of critters were in the creek. They were able to see the correlation between healthy waterbodies and healthy organisms. That fact - learning about that symbiotic relationship between the land and the water - was an important takeaway from the exercise. It was a wonderful teachable moment: Not only did it get our Corpsmembers out of the classroom and into the field (Corpsmember Gina: “it was cold, but I liked being out in the creek!”), but it also got them outside of the preconceived framework of their thinking toward how we interact and affect the world around us. It also provided our program partner with actionable data - our data confirmed the water body was healthy! This information could now better inform Merrill Creek personnel as to how they might proceed going forward with restoration work. Most importantly though - it provided environmentally affirming experiences. In the words of Corpsmember Miguel after doing a macroinvertebrate sampling, “Those bugs are cool.”
“NJ Audubon is very grateful to have worked with the NJ Youth Corps of Phillipsburg and the staff at Merrill Creek on this project because not only were the students able to see first-hand how natural vegetative cover helps maintain water quality conditions, but they were also able to get hands-on training and education to be citizen scientists evaluating what it takes to support healthy biological communities!”
Staff & CM’s looking for macroinvertabrates
We are so excited about this project and the promise for future applications that it holds for our Corps. You may have heard lately about a Civilian Climate Corps - and this small project demonstrates the possibilities of what a modern version of a CCC can accomplish. As the youth we work with pursue their education through our program, we see this kind of work as a mutually advantageous relationship - it is service-learning manifested - the learning is in the doing.
As the vision of a Civilian Climate Corps starts to come into focus, we at NJYC of Phillipsburg are uniquely positioned as a Corps that is already doing this kind of work. Working with a community-based approach, being mindful, and involving a broad cross-section of our community is an incredibly powerful way in which we can transform not just the landscapes in which we do this work, but also in changing the hearts and minds of those doing the work. We’re excited about opportunities before us!
Big thanks to John Parke of NJ Audubon and Tanya Sulikowski of Merrill Creek Reservoir for your support and dedication to our Corps!
More next week, until then-
Michael
9/11 - Reflecting on 20 Years
Greetings YC Friends and family-
Tomorrow will mark the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. It is hard to process the time passed, lives lost, and how much life has changed in that time.
The news of that day twenty years unfolded in such an odd way. Listening to the news radio in as I went to get a van to bring a crew out to clear the Morris Canal towpath trail - I heard initial reports of an ‘event’ at the World Trade Center - and without too much detail, I dismissed it and went about assembling tools and gathering the crew.
We left for the worksite, listening still to the news. As we sat waiting for our van to be fueled, the realities of what was happening in New York and Washington began to bombard our senses. Still, we pressed on - committing to the work of the day.
By the time we arrived at the worksite, all our attention was held captive to the sounds of reports on the radio. There we sat in our van, transfixed and unable to tear ourselves away from the news, each person processing the events in their own way. Some CM’s were visibly upset, others silent and somber. The images burned in my memory from that day are seen through the rearview mirror of the van, as I watched the reactions of my CM’s faces as their world changed in an instant - mine too. Some CM were crying, others had their faces pressed to the glass of the windows, looking to the sky for planes. I could never let them know how terrified I was at the time.
Recognizing the threat we were facing, we made the decision to return to the office and send students home. Some stayed around the office, lingering - and because the nature of the internet at the time (we still had dial-up), and that we had no television to watch - we still listened to the radio - offering our own theories and speculation as to what was happening, what was to happen. We kept the office open until directed by the state office to close - and by 3:00 pm - I locked up and went home. It had been some 7 hours or so since the events unfolded - and I had not yet seen any imagery from the day’s events - while most of America had been watching since the beginning - and there I sat stunned and horrified staring at the TV throughout the night - wondering how we could ever resume some semblance of normalcy ever again.
“Service to a higher cause can do that for you. It feels like a duty to maintain this place for everyone - and in doing so, feels like healing.”
”
Over the next few days and weeks, I began to clip articles, save newspapers and assemble stories in what I can only imagine as some sort of traumatic response - clearly, I was having a hard time processing things - the lives lost, the first responders sacrificing themselves in service, the seemingly endless mosaics of pictures taped to chainlink fences of the missing, families seeking any word on their loved ones - it was all so desperate and tragic. However, there was a grace and comfort I felt by seeing the sense of community and closeness we all felt in those weeks and months after. Getting back to work gave us some sense of normal, a return to routine. It was in that return that conversations we held as to what we could do to help - and aside from the donations to first responders and publicly expressing our support for the families of victims, we were at a loss to how to cathartically work through our grief.
In the ensuing months, one of our worksite partners, the NJ Tree Foundation had put forth a concept of planting a tree for every NJ victim of the attacks in a living memorial called the Grove of Remembrance at Liberty State Park. Through the vision and leadership of Lisa Simms, NJTF Director - the grove could provide a public space for reflection. Situated directly west of the southern tip of Manhattan, Liberty State Park was uniquely situated to take in survivors and the injured and served as a staging area in the rescue and recovery mission. It is a place of great significance relative to 9/11.
The crew 18 years ago above, yesterdays crew below.
As part of an army of volunteers, NJYC of Phillipsburg was just one of many to participate in the planting and subsequent maintenance of the Grove - and we’ve been back many times over the years. Being on the eve of such a significant milestone, we felt compelled to revisit and serve for the day there. The work was confined to spreading mulch in the beds around the planting. Most, if not all of our CM’s were not even born at the time of the events, so while they do not have the emotional connection of having lived through the events we did, they can understand the meaning and significance of the memorials.
We marveled at the growth of the trees, reflected on the passing of time - and because of the lack of people around, felt a feeling of solemnity as we walked around and in the Empty Sky memorial - a first time for most CM’s - I even found myself getting choked up while talking to them - finding it hard to tamper down the emotions I was feeling talking about the events of that day.
What I did expressly feel was a sense of peace and comfort revisiting and working in this place - service to a higher cause can do that for you. It feels like a duty to maintain this place for everyone - and in doing so, serving feels like healing.
Since I served in AmeriCorps in 1998, I have been in the service of others. It is by far the most rewarding work I have done. Being in service to others is the mechanism that changed the course of my life, and filled me with gratitude - as service to others is its own reward. Mahatma Gandhi said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. Truer words for me, have never been spoken.
““The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”.”
So - as you take your moments to pause and reflect tomorrow - consider also taking time to serve others. I can personally attest to the powers of service to others- it is a humbling, emotionally fulfilling, and healing process. You won’t regret it - in fact, our community, country, and the world need it from you.
Yours in Service-
Michael
#9/11 #ServiceToOthers #AlwaysRemember
a video from our day of reflection and service at the Grove.
CorpsMember Spotlight
Greetings YC Friends and Family!
We’ve been pushing through our latest cohort, and we’re seeing the warmer weather start to cool off. Growing season is starting to slow down and this morning there is a hint of the coming fall.
We are just past the halfway point in our latest cohort, and the Corpsmembers are now preparing to take the first sections of the HiSet Exam in a few weeks. They have been working hard in the classroom to master their subjects, and are building confidence toward their academic goals.
While they have been working, our Transition Team (TT) members have been working too. Transition Team members are in Stage Two of the NJ Youth Corps experience, getting some additional help on workplace readiness skills, academics, and leadership of the current cohort. We rely heavily on the TT members to set the example for our current members - showing them the ropes, and leading by example. It is a good way to develop leadership skills - and get some needed additional supports from the NJYC staff.
CorpsMember Spotlight - Sanaya H.
One TT member deserves the spotlight this week. Miss Sanaya H. - ‘Naya’ to everyone at the Corps. Naya started with the last cohort and completed the NJYC program successfully, but needed some additional assistance in mathematics - as she did not pass that section on her HSE exam. Admittedly frustrated she was not able to graduate and walk for her diploma in June, Naya picked herself up, and got right back to working on her goals of obtaining her diploma.
““I’m a lot wiser today than I was before I came to NJYC.””
Working with staff, Naya took opportunities when available to brush up on her math, and after a few weeks of studying, took the math section again - only to be disappointed with her effort - she didn’t pass again. Now facing the last of three attempts for the math sub-section, the pressure was really on her. She was not discouraged, but admittedly concerned. Even if she passed the math section with the bare minimum score, she would still need one additional point to meet the overall total score. The pressure was on. Soon, she got right back to work.
Last week Naya nervously walked into the office, feeling a little apprehensive about taking the math section again. After a pep talk from staff and few deep breaths, she sat down at the computer, closed the office door - and gave it one last try. She waited patiently for the online proctor to start the exam and with the ensuing quiet, we knew she had started the test and was underway. We spent the next 90 minutes on pins and needles - until we heard the familiar sound of the creaking office door of the ‘testing center’ opening - out of which Naya would emerge with her tell-tale smile - she had passed - just squeaking it out with the minimum required score - but ever optimistic, Naya was relieved - “At least that’s behind me now!” she said.
Even with this accomplishment, it came with the additional responsibility of obtaining that last extra point she would need to pass overall. So, on Thursday this past week - Naya came in to retake the reading portion of her exam (her strongest subject) - and to no one’s surprise, she emerged with that same smile - happily reporting she passed with a higher score than her previous reading test - going from a 9 to a 10 - and had now earned her HSE diploma!
Sanaya and Crew Leader David Smith, celebrating moments after passing her test!
Sanaya has reflected on her experience at Youth Corps - a brief interview with her conducted by Chris Mugavero (‘Mr. Chris’), our Transitions Coordinator revealed some of her insights:
Mr. Chris: How did you hear about NJYC?
Sanaya: “My older cousins came to YC. When my home burned down, I moved to Phillipsburg, and my aunt told me about NJYC.”
Mr. Chris: How have you grown while at NJYC?
Sanaya: “I’m a lot wiser today than I was before I came to NJYC. I came to the realization that violence isn’t the way to solve problems, also, I can now see a future for myself.”
Mr. Chris: What was the hardest thing about NJYC?
Sanaya: “The hardest thing for me was moving from student to Transition Team member. I had to learn how to adapt to more challenging roles & responsibilities.”
Mr. Chris: What is your favorite NJYC memory?
Sanaya: “It would be my first workday at NJYC at Walter’s Park. I loved working with my fellow Corpsmembers, as well as the NJYC staff. When I went home that day, I knew I was going to enjoy it here.”
Mr. Chris: What are you most proud of?
Sanaya: “The fact that I didn’t give up on myself, or NJYC, and decided to continue to pursue getting my diploma.”
Way back in March when I first met Sanaya at her interview - I could tell she was motivated, serious, and intentional. I’ve interviewed a lot of young men and women over the years but had an especially good feeling about her. Her smile is infectious, her energy is boundless - she is fierce! Hardworking from the jump, she displayed natural leadership when the opportunity arose - We could all tell this young woman was going places. It was hard work to corral her energy on some days, but she was always respectful and appreciative. Sanaya plans on enrolling in college soon, we are confident that she will be successful in whatever she sets her mind to. She is a perfect example that hard work and determination lead to success - even if you hit some roadblocks along the way.
Please join us in congratulating Sanaya on this monumental occasion!
Until next time - be safe, stay well!
Michael
Here we go again!
Greetings YC friends and Family!
It’s hard to believe we just wrapped up a cohort and are beginning the same intensive process all over again. While the process occasionally feels Sisyphean - our Corpsmembers always have the ability to make the staff’s effort meaningful, thereby culminating in a positive experience for all.
We hit the ground running with our 82nd class on July 6th - bringing in a new cohort. The first days are always a little lopsided - with staff bringing the energy and recruits bringing a lot of skepticism. But in short order, a system of routine - and all the hiccups that come with it - started. It was encouraging to see this group dynamic form.
Class 82 got to work in the classroom by performing their usual assessments, but also did a lot of team building activities - from simple ‘get-to-know-you’ stuff to exploring communication styles and even testing the newly formed bonds they were shaping in designing a better system to drop an egg without breaking it. Check out the video capturing these moments here, or just click the image of the video below.
Catch a glimpse of the activities included in Orientation
Once inducted, the Corpsmembers begin the rhythmic cycle of academic days and service days. It can be more challenging than you think - but the day-in-day-out routine works for our youth. Their first day of service was spent out on Warren County Parkland - specifically Bread Lock Park (BLP) along route 57 in Stewartsville, NJ. A premiere site along the historic Morris Canal Greenway, Lock 7 West became known as “Bread Lock” because the store at the end of the lock sold goods to boatmen passing through back in the mid-19th century, including homemade bread and pies. While still buried, the remains of the lock itself speak to the historical significance of this site as part of the larger Morris Canal Greenway. Today, a short section of the canal has been cleared and offers a lovely walk where you can see the prism that once held water and towpath traveled by mules pulling the boats along. Visitors can also enjoy the nature and exercise trails around the perimeter of the park, as well as the Historic Learning Center. NJYC of Phillipsburg has been maintaining BLP as part of our larger fee-for-service contract with the Warren County Department of Land Preservation. You can check out the work the crew did on their very first service day here or by clicking the video image below.
In developing our service projects over the years, we’ve been trying to increase the program’s capacity to serve our community while developing more technologically demanding, in-demand skills for our Corpsmembers to apply. This past week we took a big step toward that goal. Working with NJ Audubon and our new friends at Merrill Creek Reservoir, we installed data loggers along a section of Upper Merrill Creek to record temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) levels. These loggers were installed at the headwaters of the creek and two other locations downstream. In a few months, we’ll come back, retrieve them, and then download the data. The data will reflect certain dynamics that will inform us as to potential restoration efforts that might be implemented along the waterway. Check out the video of the installation process here or click below on the video link.
Overall, it has been a busy month - and we’re already 1/4 the way through this cohort! Looking ahead to August, we’ll be updating you on some work we’ll be doing along South Main Street in Phillipsburg - with support from our NJDOT Urban Gateway Enhancement Grant and funds from the NORWESCAP Community Development Team - we look to make an impact downtown!
We’ll also look to share our preparations for our 9/11 Day of Service & Remembrance, update you on the progress we’re making toward our current cohorts’ academic goals as well as some highlights from following up with former YC Alumni!
click to go to the Warren County Civid-19 website
Lastly - we want to remind everyone to be safe out there. The current uptick in reported cases of COVID-19 in our region means more than likely an impact that the more infectious and easily transmissible Delta variant may be on the rise. We encourage you to visit the Warren County website for more information on current protocols, vaccination sites, etc. We have found the County website immensely helpful in guiding our team in implementing safe practices and protocols throughout the pandemic and we appreciate the resources they provide - check them out!
Until then, be safe & stay healthy!
Michael
Update from White Lake!
NOTE: This weeks’ blog space is taken over by White Lake Preserve Manager Aaron Rosado -
Hey everyone, Aaron here - Greetings from White Lake!
Happy Summer! Here at White Lake, we are feeling the full effects of the season!
(An Eastern Tiger Swallowtail fanning out its wings on a Wild Bergamot)
The lake, meadows, and along the trails are all lively with a plethora of flora and fauna! However, not every plant and animal you see is a native species. In fact, a good amount of what you notice will actually be considered invasive species.
(A common invasive plant, Multiflora Rose, is seen in a meadow where it shows early stages of Rose Rosette Disease, a viral rose disease spread by mites.)
The problem with invasive species is they disrupt ecosystems. Invasive plants and animals can thrive and spread aggressively due to the lack of native predators. This can result in detrimental consequences, like causing damage to habitats or “replacing” native species.
(The highly invasive Phragmites is seen taking over the lakeshore. It has already made its presence around the perimeter of the lake)
(The highly invasive Phragmites is seen taking over the lakeshore. It has already made its presence around the perimeter of the lake)
Preventive actions can be taken on invasives, such as spraying herbicide, physical removal, and constant vigilance. For example, when taking out an aquatic vessel, be sure to clean and inspect for any plant matter on your kayak, paddle board, and oars before going out on the water. The same should be done with fishing equipment, hooks, baits, and lures.
(Native Butterfly Milkweed is seen hosting a couple of bumblebees. Butterflies, bees, and birds are examples of pollinators, organisms that help the transfer of pollen so flowering plants can reproduce.)
So, the next time you walk outside, try and see what plants and animals are native and which are invasive. The more you know, the more you can help in joining us in reducing invasive spread and promotion of native species!
See you out on the trails (or the lake!) -
Until then-
Aaron