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By Shannon Negray

Lee Dvorak, IVCC’s first AmeriCorp member, works full-time as a paramedic in Cook County, studies at ISU, and spends his spare time tutoring kindergarten and first grade students in English as a second language.

Originally from Chicago, where he graduated from Brother Rice Catholic High School, Dvork joined the Army and became an Airborne Ranger and Drill Instructor.

After his military service, he enrolled at IVCC to pursue a career as high school social science teacher.

"I moved to Ottawa three years ago to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, though I still work there," he said.

Dvorak graduated Magna Cum Laude from IVCC at the end of the fall semester and started at ISU in January. He should graduate in May 2003.

Last summer he was recruited by Jill-Urban Bollis, IVCCs AmeriCorp coordinator and he decided to accept the challenge.

He was sent down to Rend Lake Community College for five days of intensive training during in August.

"There we were taught everything from gang awareness, to team building, to literacy tutoring," he said.

AmeriCorp then assigned him to Jefferson Elementary School in Ottawa where he is tutoring. As an AmeriCorp recruit, he is receiving a living allowance in exchange for 900 hours of service.

"I am there (Jefferson Elementary) two days a week and at ISU two days a week," Dvorak said. "As a paramedic, I work 24 hour shifts so I can squeeze this all in."

Reviewing his experiences so far, he said: "I cannot say enough about how rewarding this experience has been and how great it feels to be helping educate these young children. I also have learned a lot about working with faculty and staff. I am sure this experience will be of great benefit as I officially become an educator myself next year."

Urban-Bollis described Dvorak as a truly dedicated AmeriCorp volunteer.

"Lee was devoted to the program from the very beginning," she said. "I knew that I could depend on him. Lee wears many hats as a father, student, EMT, and the list goes on to include being an AmeriCorp member. He truly has what it takes to be an effective member. He is dedicated, committed, and has an internal motivational drive."