Evan Kerschner, of Sequim, is one of 240 young people pledging to perform 10 months of public service throughout the country as part of the 17th class of the National Civilian Community Corps, an AmeriCorps program.

As a Corps member, Kerschner will spend 10 months working on four projects involving environmental conservation, infrastructure improvement, urban and rural development, energy conservation and disaster relief.

“I feel that service means making a difference when no one else will,” Kerschner said.

After his 10-month stint, Kerschner will graduate from NCCC on Nov. 17 with an education award of $5,550, which can be used to continue education or pay back student loans.

AmeriCorps NCCC is a leadership program for young people ages 18-24. In exchange for completing 1,700 hours of service during a 10-month term, these young people receive an education award of more than $5,000, plus a living stipend, housing and more. AmeriCorps programs are administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency.

For more information, see www.americorps.gov/nccc or call 800-942-2677.