Support Imani's Peace Corp Service

Hi Everyone!

My name is Imani and I am about to embark on a life-changing, 27-month adventure with the Peace Corps in Zambia. I will be serving as a Forestry and Agriculture Specialist and I'm seeking help as I prepare for this journey in March 2019. 

My Journey

First and foremost, I cannot begin to express how thankful I am to be selected as a volunteer in Zambia. I am overwhelmed with excitement to work with the fellow Peace Corp Volunteers, community members, and villagers as we work toward conserving resources and sustaining the environment. Environmental sustainability is a genuine passion of mine and since this topic is close to my heart, I'm overjoyed to have the opportunity to influence lasting change at the ground level. 

A few of my responsibilities as a Forestry and Agriculture Specialist will include;
-Teaching improved food preservation and vegetable gardening techniques
-Improving the livelihood and income of local villagers 
-Teaching families about the importance of consuming a balanced diet
-Enabling local farmers to adopt proven agroforestry options
-Training community leaders to assist in the promotion of more sustainable gardening practices
-Conducting HIV/AIDS prevention activities
-Ongoing community development

I cannot wait to begin my new life as a volunteer in Zambia, and with the proper preparation and planning, I hope to make my transition as smooth as possible. I'm excited to experience the abundant wildlife, breathtaking beauty and rich culture within Zambia but more than anything, I'm looking forward to developing lasting relationships and learning from the local people. 

Here's a short video that filled my heart with joy and anticipation for my new lifestyle in Zambia.



Use of Funds

Now that I've answered the call to action, it's time to prepare. Thankfully, the Peace Corp covers the cost of travel to and from Zambia and basic in-country costs of living. 

So this begs the question: Why fundraise?

There are three major reasons for this campaign. 

First, medical and packing preparation. There are a series of medical exams, dental exams, and immunizations required to travel overseas and serve in the Peace Corp. These tasks must be completed by December 15th or else my invitation to serve will be revoked. Although the Peace Corp does minimal reimbursement for these medical visits, the majority of the medical bills will have to come out of my own pocket and as I'm sure we all know, medical bills can be very daunting.  In addition, the Peace Corp packing list,  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, camping supplies, 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, risks may be amplified. I'll be living in a rural village, a two day trip from the nearest metropolitan city. This means that in my site location, there will be no internet, no running water, no electricity and cell service will be sporadic. 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 Zambia. Therefore, I have to save up for any and all traveling that will take place during my two-year service, before I depart in March. Although becoming a Peace Corps Volunteer will fulfill a meaningful long-term goal of mine, leaving behind my family and friends will definitely be a challenge. I plan to use a portion of the funds to purchase a plane ticket to return home to the U.S. and visit my loved ones. There is a huge list of people who have supported me throughout my journey to become a Peace Corps Volunteer and they're all extremely important to me, so I'd love to keep in contact with them while overseas. 

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.

Serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer will challenge me in every way, but it is a challenge that I cannot wait to undertake. Thank you so much for your time, and potentially your help with my journey.  Again, I am unfathomably grateful. 


 --Imani