Recovery from the 2025 ice storm continues across Northern Michigan, where communities are still addressing the storm's widespread impact. To support these ongoing efforts, the Otsego Community Foundation partnered with the Michigan Community Service Commission to submit an application for an AmeriCorps NCCC team. The application was selected through a competitive process based on significant demonstrated community need.
In mid-May of this year, an AmeriCorps NCCC team arrived in Michigan to assist with ongoing cleanup efforts following the 2025 ice storms. AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based national service program for young adults ages 18 to 24. Teams spend 10 months traveling to three to six different projects in different communities. AmeriCorps NCCC is one of many programs within AmeriCorps, the federal agency that brings people together to tackle our nation's most pressing challenges through service and volunteerism.
During their seven-week deployment, the AmeriCorps NCCC team served in Otsego and Montmorency Counties where they've consolidated over 35,000 pounds of storm debris. They also worked with the American Red Cross to assess 11 shelters and inventory 1,200 pounds of disaster supplies in preparation for future disaster events. In addition, the team supported multiple community events, including the Gaylord Gus Macker and Otsego Conservation's Art in the Garden Festival.
"This project is a great example of what can be accomplished when local organizations, state partners, and national service programs work together," said Otsego Community Foundation Executive Director Dana Bensinger. "We're grateful to the Michigan Community Service Commission and AmeriCorps for recognizing the needs of Northern Michigan and investing resources in our recovery efforts."
Prior to arriving in Michigan, this AmeriCorps NCCC team spent two months in Alabama helping to reduce hunger. After wrapping up this seven-week disaster recovery project on July 5, the team moved to Detroit, where they'll support the National Veterans Wheelchair Games until July 16. After that, they'll complete one or two more projects before graduating from the program in November.
"The ice storm tested the resilience of our region, but it also showcased the generosity and determination of countless volunteers and partners," Dana Bensinger added. "The AmeriCorps team has become part of that story, and we are deeply appreciative of their commitment to service."
The Otsego Community Foundation extends its appreciation to AmeriCorps NCCC, the Michigan Community Service Commission, local partners, and the many volunteers who continue to contribute to recovery efforts throughout our region. Their collective commitment has helped communities move forward from the impacts of the 2025 ice storm and serves as a powerful reminder that we are strongest when we come together to support one another.
