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Jacob's Peace Corps Adventure

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Hi Everyone!

My name is Jacob and I am about to embark on a life-changing, 27-month adventure with the Peace Corps in South Africa. I will be serving as a English teacher for 6-9 years olds and I'm seeking help as I prepare for this journey in July 2019. 

My Journey

First of all, I cannot express my excitement having been chosen as a Peace Corps volunteer! This will not only serve as an amazing opportunity for personal growth, but also as a chance to help others around the world in less fortunate situations, a goal of mine since I started my education in International affairs more than 5 years ago!

The main three primary focus areas of the Early Grade English Education Project are to:
1. Increase the capacity of South African Kindergarten, Grade R, in order for teachers to teach literacy skills and manage their classes more effectively
2. Directly teach English to Grades 1, 2 and 3 learners, ages 6 – 9 years old
3. Provide remedial English lessons to small groups of learners throughout the primary school 

In addition to my primary duties, I will become involved in secondary projects which could include, amongst others:

• Supporting school-related activities including the development and promotion of libraries
• Conducting extra-mural activities such as homework clubs, girls or boys clubs, indoor or outdoor games or sporting activities
• Extra-curricular English and literacy enrichment activities

I cannot wait to begin my new life as a volunteer in South Africa, and with the proper preparation and planning, I hope to make my transition as smooth as possible. 

Use of Funds

Now that I have accepted my invitation, it's time to prepare. Luckily, The Peace Corp covers the cost of travel to and from South Africa and basic in-country costs of living. 

So here's the question: Why fundraise?

There are three major reasons for this campaign. 

First, medical, legal, and packing preparation. There are a series of medical exams, dental exams, and immunizations required to travel overseas and serve in the Peace Corp. Although the Peace Corp does minimal reimbursement for these medical visits, the majority of the medical bills have come out of my own pocket and, as I am currently living in France while completing an Alumni Fellowship for which I receive no payment, these bills have added up quickly.

There are also various FBI security checks for which I have had to travel vast distances and pay various fees to complete. 

In addition, the Peace Corp packing list, while very thorough and filled with needed supplies, is demanding. There is a hefty list of supplies that I need to bring with me to secure my safety and wellness such as modest and professional clothing, survival tools, etc. 

The second use of the funds will go toward an emergency fund. Immigrating to another country is always unpredictable, but in the case of volunteering with Peace Corp, the risks are amplified. Although I have no intention of supplementing my day-to-day experience with funds from home, having an emergency fund in the case of theft, health concerns, and unpredictable circumstances would help guide me through my two-year service safely and securely. 

The third reason for this campaign is to cover travel expenses. For those who don't know, the Peace Corps is a volunteer position, which means I will not be making any money in the next two years, so saving for upcoming travel will not be an option while in South Africa. Therefore, I have to save up for any and all traveling that will take place during my two-year service, before I depart in July. I plan on working as much as possible during the 6 week period that I will be home, but I fear that it may not be enough to finance a trip home to see my friends and family who have supported me so much and are the reason I am lucky enough to have this opportunity in the first place! 

How You Can Help

To anyone who's still reading at this point, I'd like to take this time to thank you. I cannot thank you enough for your time and consideration, it means the world to me that you clicked on my campaign and read my story. 

If you feel that supporting my Peace Corp service is something you want to get involved with, please consider donating or sharing this link on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and with anyone you believe would be interested. 

Anything, even a dollar or sharing this link, is very much appreciated.

Sincerely,

Jacob Jefferson
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Donations 

  • Jeanne Donohue
    • $25 
    • 5 yrs
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Organizer

Jacob Jefferson
Organizer
Mays Landing, NJ

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