As days passed, the efforts became more than an assignment. Working together with Clarksville, this team became part of our family. They laughed with us, cried with us and rejoiced with us as each successful step was accomplished. These bright and proficient young people gave so much more than physical labor.

The organizational skills were evident from the sandbag wall effort to the communication
center; from running meetings to delegating authority; from choosing the direction to
bringing a halt to negative situations. Decisions were made quickly with care and thoughtful consideration and always providing adequate information to the Mayor or others in positions
of authority. The competency level of this team is extraordinary. Each member brought his
or her expertise to the table and shared it with everyone connected to his or her part of the effort.

During such a time as this flood emergency, emotions are high, people become exhausted,
fear creeps into the picture, and thoughts are easily scrambled. The AmeriCorps team
recognized and understood the frenzy, met the need to bring stability to the situation and
assisted in clearing the way to move us forward

Praise and admiration are due each individual member. Blue ribbons and gold stars could
never do justice to the contribution made by AmeriCorps St. Louis to Clarksville, MO.

Sincerely,
Jo Anne Smiley, Mayor