Invitation to Morocco!!

So after 2 years of applying, interviewing, fulfilling a seemingly endless series of medical requirements, and months and months of waiting, on Thursday November 18th, 2010, I received my invitation from the Peace Corps to work in NGO Development in Morocco!! This was my first choice country and I am humbled - truly in awe - and immensely grateful to have been granted my dearest wish for this coveted spot.

I've been assigned to a rural location in the Tensift region of Morocco where I won't necessarily have running water, electricity or internet. I will be working to improve and sustain the quality of services local NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations) and CBAs (Community Based Associations) provide to their constituents and communities. I will act as a catalyst of a capacity building process by working directly with the organizations to assess their profile and design and co-facilitate training programs.

Although this is different from anything I have ever done, I believe I can use my problem solving skills and ability to connect with people of many different backgrounds and cultural belief systems to work to create change and build international peace. This is especially important today at a time of heightened tension between Islam and Christianity on a global scale. By working together to build a better world, based on mutual respect and friendship, we can and we will find our common ground!

I can't wait to become a part of this!