I arrived to Namibia on March 12th 2014 and here I am one year later! I can't believe it. I actually made it. I am proud. Only 14 months until I complete my service. Now that may seem silly to say as I have actually more time left than I have completed, but I feel like it is just tomorrow that I will be going home. When I first applied for Peace Corps I thought 27 months was such a long time and wondered why it couldn’t be one year, “Isn't that long enough?”, I thought. I want to try and paint a picture for you. Most jobs in America have a defined job description, duties and colleagues to work with to reach your goals. As a health volunteer in Peace Corps, you are given an organization to work with but you are responsible for assessing the needs of the community, identifying projects to work on that are culturally and economically sustainable and find colleagues to collaborate on the project with. This is a big task to take on in a familiar community – now picture trying this in a country a hemisphere and season different than your own. It takes just a year to build trust with people – for them to be comfortable with you and you to know who has an honest commitment and desire to better the community.
I have heard it time and time again from other volunteers, the second year is easier and when you really get in the routine of your work projects. I am into that second year, and for me it is true! After many failed projects and heartfelt attempts and ideas, I have a few projects that are consistent. I co-advise three school clubs that meet four times a week. I lead an exercise class three times a week for ladies in the community. I am assisting with a garden and chicken project that are to benefit the hospital patients and disadvantaged in the community. I also help organize any projects within the Khorixas Hospital Social Services Department. These are my main community projects and in Peace Corps I am a leader in the HIV Working Group and Volunteer Support Network. This work keeps me busy and I pray my efforts are as beneficial to others.
With just a year left, I had to plan out my vacation days so that I can visit as much of Namibia as possible before I go home. This makes the time go by even faster! The most exciting news is my mom will be visiting in just a few months (your summer & my winter)!!!!
