AmeriCorps Featured Member - Anton

Anton Getz is a member of MACOG’s second AmeriCorps cohort serving with MACOG’s Active Transportation department in partnership with the South Bend Bike Garage. He focuses on improving access to and the quality of active transportation in the region. Access to transportation can have a huge impact on a person’s life. This is why Anton spends time every week at Motels4Now, a homeless shelter in South Bend, fixing bikes for the residents. Additionally, using MACOG’s “data bike”, Anton has collected information on the conditions of over 50 miles of multi-use trails in the region. This information will be provided to local governments to assist in the ongoing maintenance of the trail system.

How did you find out about AmeriCorps and what lead you to this role?

I met Dustin New, MACOG’s Active Transportation Planner, while volunteering for the South Bend bike garage. He told me about the position and I was excited to learn that such an opportunity existed. Through applying to the position I was made aware of AmeriCorps, which opened many potential doors for serving my community.

Why did you select MACOG Active Transportation as your AmeriCorps service site?

I am looking to pursue a career in sustainable transportation coordination. Working with an organization like MACOG that is concerned about transportation, sustainability, and community development is a great privilege, as it aligns perfectly with my career goals. I am honored to work with so many great people who are making real differences in their communities, and in the greater four county region.

What AmeriCorps activities have been most meaningful to you? / What project/event has been most meaningful to you?

Working with the folks at Motels4Now has been incredibly rewarding. To the people living there, a working bicycle is an invaluable tool that can change their life. A bicycle could be the mode of transportation that gets them to work, and in turn helps them get their own permanent housing eventually. No other group of people is more grateful to have their bikes fixed. The smiles on their faces when they ride off on their now-functional bicycle has been the greatest reward.

How has service in the AmeriCorps program at MACOG and living in our region impacted your career aspirations?

Without this opportunity, I wouldn’t have been sure about my career path. The experience I have gained working with MACOG has solidified my passion for creating better transportation infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists. Also, working with people that share common interests has been invaluable, and is something that I will prioritize in future.

What continues to inspire you to serve in this role?

Seeing the accomplishments of the MAGOG employees has been inspiring. Knowing that you can make a real, positive impact in your community drives me to continue my education and to serve.

What’s next after your AmeriCorps service is completed?

I hope to receive a bachelor’s degree in urban planning and go on to a master’s program that specializes in transportation planning. With this education I hope to work for a city government and help make the city I live in a more pleasant place to live for everyone.

“I want to help make cities more accessible to people without cars, and conducive to less reliance on personal motor vehicles.”