HOLMEN, Wisconsin (WXOW) - One non-profit in Wisconsin has taken the goal of environmental conservation into backyards across the state.
WisCorps works on preserving trails and ecosystems in public lands. But the group also does outdoor work for the elderly and disabled, all while engaging young adults in environmental sustainability.
On July 13, the community revitalization crew did some landscaping for 30-year Holmen resident Joan Hallmark. She says that WisCorps' work has helped her stay in her home longer.
"They've been so helpful. I mean, they're just doing everything," Hallmark said. "They put my fence up. They dug trees out. They've done flowers. They just do anything I ask them to do. And they're really respectful of you."
WisCorps employs young people ages 16-25 to work in crews that do a variety of jobs, from taking care of trails to managing invasive species.
"I do this because I get to go home at the end of the day and be like 'I helped somebody out today!'", said Meghan LaPointe, assistant crew director. "I've never had a more rewarding job in my life."
The community revitalization crew also does disaster response and community gardening. Recently, the crew helped with the Kane Street Garden for the La Crosse Hunger Task Force.
WisCorps members say it engages them in their community.
"I feel giving back is just a small part of what I can do to help," said member Jaimee Curtis.
For more information about WisCorps, go to http://www.wiscorps.org/
