AZCC has made me a totally different person and a better one if anything. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life but now I’m slowly starting to figure out what I want to do and become. It’s challenging work especially when you’re hot, tired, thirsty, and just want to go home but at the end of the day it’s all worth it. You’ll become stronger not only physically but mentally as well and that’s why I keep coming back for more."

It means a lot to me to know I am an active environmental steward now. Repairing trails, removing invasive species and informing people about what we do makes me happy. People see the work we do and a lot of them ask how they can become a part of it too. It impacts my community by offering a rewarding work environment and providing opportunities for continuing education."

I am more adventurous and capable in the back-country, and I’m less afraid of working hard and getting dirty. I feel that I’m less intimidated by starting big tasks or learning new skills, and have been able to apply them even in unfamiliar environments and challenging new work. I’ll continue to fill my life with out-of-the-ordinary experiences that excite me, broaden my horizons, and teach me."