John Kelly, from Canby, Ore., is a member of Maple 4 in NCCC’s Class 19. He arrived in Vinton on February 5, 2013, to start his 10-month service term on a team of people between the ages of 18 and 24. Maple 4 is made up of nine people from across the country, and they are serving together in a number of service projects across the North Central Region throughout their term. 

When asked why he joined NCCC, John said it was “to help people and be a productive member of society.”

John brings several skills with him to NCCC, which help him be successful in his role as a Corps Member. He has skills in creative and critical thinking, comedic timing, strength, and objectivity. He is also a hard worker.

Prior to NCCC, John graduated from Portland State University in June of 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He also graduated from Canby High School in June 2007. After finishing the program, John hopes to go to a community college and use the education award the NCCC will give him upon graduation to help pay for it.

John has gained a unique and rewarding experience with climbing before NCCC. “I've done some tree climbing through Tim Kovar in Oregon City,” he said. “He uses rope and knots to climb the tree. It’s a lot of work to climb up, and slow going, but it is gratifying to spend all this work and then reach the top to a nice, encompassing view.”

Maple 4 is currently on a project that runs from July 16 to August 1 with Northern Michigan Mountain Bike Association (NMMBA), Vanderbilt, Mich. Maple 4 is assisting the NMMBA in the full replacement of a boardwalk along the High Country Pathway. The team is also assisting in the re-blazing of the nearly 92 mile trail. The trail is considered an International Mountain Bike Association Epic Ride and helps bring tourist traffic to the surrounding communities.

Some fun facts about John:

Q: What is your favorite movie? Drive

Q: What is your favorite book? War and Peace

Q: What is your favorite candy? Twix

Q: What is your favorite food? Salsa

Q: What is your favorite animal? Dog

Q: Who is your favorite super hero? Batman

Q: What is one place in the world you really wish you could visit? Brazil

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Read, listen to music, converse